AAIB investigation to RAF 2000 GTX-SE, G-BXDE

Loss of control on takeoff, North Weald Airfield, Essex, 14 September 2018.

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 14 March 2019

• Category: Sport aviation and balloons
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 14 September 2018
• Aircraft type: RAF 2000 GTX-SE
• Location: North Weald Airfield, Essex
• Registration: G-BXDE

Summary:

G-BXDE was being flown for the purpose of revalidating the owner’s gyroplane rating. As the gyroplane became airborne it rolled to the right and turned through 180° before descending back to the ground. It struck the ground on its right side to the right of the runway. The examiner sustained serious injuries.

The investigation concluded that the gyroplane took off with insufficient rotor speed and excessive airspeed. It is possible that the gust lock had been left engaged, restricting the movement of the control stick.

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RAF 2000 GTX-SE, G-BXDE 03-19

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Glossary of abbreviations

Published 14 March 2019