Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the gyrocopter during takeoff with strong gusty winds.
NTSB analysis
Shortly after takeoff the pilot “felt a force straight down.” The gyroplane impacted the terrain hard, rolled over, and came to rest on its side adjacent to the runway. The gyroplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and stabilizers. Reported winds about the time accident included wind gusts and a peak wind of 30 knots. A postaccident examination of the gyroplane revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN22LA150 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Mar 23, 2022
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Lubbock, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Lubbock Executive Airpark (F82)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built III
- N-number
- N430HS
- Category
- Gyroplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- 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.