Probable cause
A total loss of engine power during cruise flight due to the separation of the No. 2 piston connecting rod.
NTSB analysis
About 15 minutes after takeoff, during cruise flight, the engine's performance began to degrade. Although the flight instructor increased engine power, the engine subsequently lost total power, so he maneuvered the gyroplane for landing in a clearing. During the approach, the main rotor blade impacted power lines. Subsequently, the gyroplane landed hard, rolled over, and came to rest on its right side, which resulted in substantial damage to the rotor system, horizontal stabilizer, and fuselage. Examination of the engine crankcase revealed a hole near the fuel intake system and the separation of the No.2 piston connecting rod.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA13LA126 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 4, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Montrose, Georgia
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built SHTTD
- N-number
- N4201S
- Category
- Gyroplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Instructional
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.