Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing, which resulted in a runway excursion and collision with terrain.
NTSB analysis
The pilot of the gyroplane reported that, during a touch-and-go landing to the runway, he encountered a gusting wind, causing the gyroplane to veer left to the grass. Subsequently, the gyroplane collided with the runway hold short sign, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage. 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 WPR24LA044 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 17, 2023
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Yuma, Arizona
- Nearest airport
- Yuma Mcas/Yuma Intl (NYL)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built ELA ECLIPSE 10
- N-number
- N82TK
- Category
- Gyroplane
- Year built
- 2017
- 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.