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NTSB Report
June 11, 2022 · Walter S Johnson Iii AR-1 · N688G
Butler, PA
Overview
Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
June 11, 2022
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (2 uninjured)
Location
Butler, PA
Aircraft
Walter S Johnson Iii AR-1 (2017)
Tail Number
N688G
Operator
Beighey Mark W
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
ERA22LA269
The pilot said the traffic pattern was busy, so he began the pre-rotation process as he taxied the gyroplane onto the runway to depart. At that time, the rotor disk rpm was at 140 rpm, which was 20 rpm above the recommended takeoff speed. The pilot said he slowly applied power because he had a passenger onboard, which may have allowed time for the disk speed to decay and become susceptible to blade flap. During the takeoff roll, the gyroplane’s main rotor blades struck and severed the tail assembly, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot said there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot’s failure to monitor rotor disk speed on takeoff, which resulted in blade flapping and the main rotor blades striking the gyroplane’s tail assembly.
Full Narrative
The pilot said the traffic pattern was busy, so he began the pre-rotation process as he taxied the gyroplane onto the runway to depart. At that time, the rotor disk rpm was at 140 rpm, which was 20 rpm above the recommended takeoff speed. The pilot said he slowly applied power because he had a passenger onboard, which may have allowed time for the disk speed to decay and become susceptible to blade flap. During the takeoff roll, the gyroplane’s main rotor blades struck and severed the tail assembly, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot said there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time12:35 EDT
Nearest AirportPittsburgh/Butler Rgnl (0nm SE)
Runway26
Runway Length4801 ft
Runway Width100 ft
Flight Plan FiledNone
Flight Plan ActivatedNo
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftWalter S Johnson Iii AR-1
Tail NumberN688G
Aircraft CategoryHeli
DamageSubstantial
OperatorBeighey Mark W
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsRotax · 912ULS · Reciprocating · 100
Seats2
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (2 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured2
Total2
Crew 1Age 64 · Sprt · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
Wind5 kt
Visibility10 sm
CeilingNone
Temperature / Dew Point52 F
Altimeter29.97 inHg
Observation Time12:56
Weather SourceWFAC