Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to carburetor icing.
NTSB analysis
The private pilot of the gyrocopter stated that, after reducing engine power to descend, the engine experienced a total loss of power due to carburetor ice and that there was nowhere to land. The gyrocopter subsequently impacted 30-ft high power lines and the ground. Examination of the wreckage showed that the rotor blades were coned upward consistent with low rotor rpm at ground impact. Given the weather conditions in the area about the time of the accident, the aircraft would have been operating in conditions conducive to moderate carburetor icing at cruise power and serious icing at descent power. Thus, it is likely that the engine lost power due to carburetor icing.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN15LA235 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- May 1, 2015
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Ravenna, Michigan
- Nearest airport
- Muskegon County Airport (MKG)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built B8M
- N-number
- N5606X
- Category
- Gyroplane
- Year built
- 2008
- Damage
- Destroyed
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.