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March 12, 2017 · Kerns Kenneth H KENS Wingless Wonder NO Series · N7195R

Mount Airy, NC

Overview

Report Status
Final with probable cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
March 12, 2017
Injury Outcomes
1 injury (1 minor injury)
Location
Mount Airy, NC
Aircraft
Kerns Kenneth H KENS Wingless Wonder NO Series
Tail Number
N7195R
Injuries
Minor
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ERA17CA129

The pilot, who was also the owner of the of amateur-built gyroplane, stated that he adjusted the prerotator motor pressure plate before the flight by moving it closer to the clutch to improve rpm. During takeoff, the gyroplane rolled right, and he was unable to maintain control. The gyroplane subsequently impacted the ground and cartwheeled, which resulted in substantial damage to the rotor, mast, and cabin. The pilot further stated that, due to his adjustment, it was likely that the prerotator did not disengage, which resulted in increased right torque and the inability to control the gyroplane during takeoff.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s improper adjustment of the prerotator motor, which resulted in its failure to disengage and the subsequent loss of aircraft control during takeoff.

Full Narrative

The pilot, who was also the owner of the of amateur-built gyroplane stated he adjusted the prerotator motor pressure plate prior to the flight by moving it closer to the clutch to improve rpm. During takeoff, the gyroplane rolled right and he was unable to maintain control. The gyroplane subsequently impacted the ground and cartwheeled, which resulted in substantial damage to the rotor, mast, and cabin. He further stated that due to his adjustment, it was likely that the prerotator did not disengage, resulting in increased right torque and the inability to control the gyroplane during takeoff.

Flight

Event TypeAccident
Event Time13:58 EDT
Nearest AirportMount Airy/Surry County (0nm SSE)
Runway36
Runway Length4301 ft
Runway Width75 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo

Aircraft

AircraftKerns Kenneth H KENS Wingless Wonder NO Series
Tail NumberN7195R
Aircraft CategoryGyro
DamageSubstantial
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsSubaru · 2.5 · Reciprocating · 165
Seats2

People & Injuries

Injury Summary1 injury (1 minor injury)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor1
Uninjured0
Total1
Crew 1Age 54 · Third Class · Minor

Conditions

ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point43 C / 1 C
Altimeter30.31 inHg
Observation Time16:50
Weather SourceWFAC

Appendix: Source Data