Probable cause
The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions during the landing roll. A factor was the gusting crosswind.
NTSB analysis
The gyroplane received substantial damage when it rolled onto its left side during landing. The gyroplane's main rotor struck the runway, causing the cabin enclosure to roll over about two times before coming to rest on its right side. The pilot reported that the approach was normal, with touchdown on both main wheels. He stated that he reduced power, and then felt the right main wheel come off of the ground. He stated that he attempted to correct by moving the cyclic control to the right and forward, but the gyroplane rolled to its left. The wind conditions reported were from 20 degrees right of runway heading at 15 knots, gusting to 21 knots.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CHI08CA062 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jan 6, 2008
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Valparaiso, Indiana
- Nearest airport
- Dummy (VPZ)
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built RAF2000
- N-number
- N1702A
- 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.