Amateur-built Explorer Coupe N5098L accident near Okeechobee, Florida

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control of the gyrocopter while taxiing for takeoff.

NTSB analysis

The pilot informed his friends that he was having problems with the pre-rotator not getting over 60 rpm. He stated that he might reengage the pre-rotator after he started his takeoff roll. Although there were no witnesses to the accident, a departing pilot observed the wreckage on the side of the runway. Examination of the accident site revealed evidence on the taxiway of the aircraft swerving to the right, continuing forward 106 feet before it started to roll to the left. The crash debris line was 230 feet long. Examination of the airframe, flight controls, engine assembly and accessories revealed no anomalies. The NTSB was informed that if the pre-rotator was reengaged while the engine was at a power setting higher than idle, the resulting torque forces could cause the aircraft to lurch to the right, thus causing a roll to the left. Additionally, the pilot had undergone coronary artery bypass surgery approximately 2 ½ years prior to the accident. On autopsy, the pilot’s heart was noted to be markedly enlarged, but all bypass grafts remained open. It could not be determined whether the pilot may have had an incapacitating event that precipitated the accident. The pilot did not hold a current medical certificate.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09LA198 for the full record.