Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain the proper airspeed during the approach, which resulted in a hard landing.
NTSB analysis
The pilot was working toward his gyroplane rating and had received a solo endorsement. He reported that, during approach, he turned from base to final and that the airspeed then decreased. He added that the gyroplane "abruptly settled" and then landed hard on the dirt surface. The rotor blades struck the ground, and the gyroplane came to rest upright.
The gyroplane sustained substantial damage to the horizontal stabilizer and the rotor blades.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the gyroplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for GAA19CA232 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Apr 30, 2019
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Cobden, Illinois
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built TANGO2
- N-number
- N857UV
- Category
- Gyroplane
- Year built
- 2019
- 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.