Probable cause
A loss of engine power due to a broken crankshaft for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the gyroplane stated that after takeoff he climbed to pattern altitude and, while on downwind and abeam the runway numbers, he heard a “pop and then experienced a terrible, violent vibration, seemingly catastrophic in nature. There was no power, but the engine was still running.” As he was conducting a forced landing in rough terrain, the wheel and then the main rotor dug into the ground, causing the ship to roll onto its side. The main rotor, mast, landing gear, and horizontal stabilizer sustained damage. Further examination by the pilot revealed that the engine crankshaft was broken near the No. 1 cylinder. The pistons of the non-certified engine had been replaced about 10 operational hours earlier.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09LA438 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 30, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Norridgewock, Maine
- Nearest airport
- Central Maine Airport (OWK)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dusk
Amateur-built CHR-1
- N-number
- N179TC
- 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.