UNREG

Substantial
Serious

REED RODERICK KB3 GYROPLANES/N: REED307D

Accident Details

Date
Saturday, May 14, 2011
NTSB Number
CEN11CA336
Location
Scott, LA
Event ID
20110514X05745
Coordinates
30.276945, -92.152778
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
Serious
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
1
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
0
Total Aboard
1

Probable Cause and Findings

The pilot's poor decision to takeoff with a tailwind which resulted in a runway excursion.

Aircraft Information

Registration
UNREG
Make
REED RODERICK
Serial Number
REED307D
Engine Type
Turbo-shaft
Model / ICAO
KB3 GYROPLANEDH2T
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1

Analysis

According to a statement obtained from the pilot by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector, the pilot was attempting to depart a private grass strip with a tailwind. Approximately half way down the runway the gyroplane became airborne. The pilot looked down to check his engine instruments, and when he looked back up he was quickly approaching the end of the runway and a fence line. The pilot was unable to maneuver over the fence and the gyroplane impacted the top of the fence line. The gyroplane's fueslage was substantially damaged. He did not report any preimpact anomalies, and attributed inattention for his descent and collision with the fence. The pilot added that he was aware of the tailwind conditions.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# CEN11CA336