Probable cause
The gyroplane's inadequate climb performance for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
The pilot stated that the gyroplane took off about 1,200 feet from the departure end of runway 15 and experienced a "loss of lift" when it was approximately 30 feet above the ground. The pilot "lowered the nose to increase airspeed to increase lift," but the gyroplane continued to descend. With no runway available, the gyroplane landed "flat" into a lake, and after exiting the pilot and passenger swam to shore. No preaccident mechanical anomalies were noted with the gyroplane, which was about 90 pounds below maximum gross weight at takeoff. Winds were from 190 degrees true at 5 knots, and temperature at the time was 32 degrees C. The extent to which the combination of high gross weight and high ambient temperature may have affected the flight was not determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09LA544 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Sep 25, 2009
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
- Nearest airport
- Raven'S Run Airport (SC65)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Celier Aviation XENON RST
- N-number
- N4462J
- 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.