Amateur-built Cavalon N477AG accident near Shelton, Washington

Probable cause

The pilot’s failure to initiate the takeoff roll with inadequate rotor speed, and his failure to follow the published takeoff procedures, which resulted in a loss of control and impact with the ground.

NTSB analysis

The pilot of the gyroplane was practicing takeoffs and landings. On the accident takeoff attempt, the pilot initiated the takeoff roll with a rotor rpm less than that recommended by the manufacturer. When he saw that the speed of the gyroplane was higher than normal and the gyroplane still had not lifted off the runway, he applied aft control stick to initiate the takeoff, contrary to the published takeoff procedures in the owner’s manual. The gyroplane then immediately lifted off the runway and rolled to the left. The rotor contacted the left vertical stabilizer and the runway.

An examination of the wreckage revealed no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the gyroplane that would have precluded normal operation. It is likely that the pilot’s decision to initiate the takeoff with low rotor rpm and his failure to follow the published takeoff procedure resulted in a loss of control.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR19LA221 for the full record.