N7195R – KERNS KENNETH H KENS WINGLESS WONDER – 2017-03-12 NTSB Accident Report

On March 12, 2017, a Kerns Kenneth H KENS WINGLESS WONDER (N7195R) was involved in an accident near Mount Airy, NC. The accident resulted in 1 minor injury. The aircraft sustained substantial damage.

The National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of this accident to be: 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.

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.

This accident is documented in NTSB report ERA17CA129. AviatorDB cross-references NTSB investigation data with FAA registry records to provide comprehensive safety information for aircraft N7195R.