Independent Technical Review of Gyrocopter Hub Bar Failures

200405511

Summary

Following a fatal accident near Thargomindah, Queensland, and a series of other serious gyrocopter accidents and incidents involving the cracking or failure of the rotor hub-bar component, a review of the available information and understanding of the failure mechanism was undertaken on behalf of the Charleville, Qld coroner, to assist in his preparation for an inquest into the Thargomindah accident.

The review examined the mechanism of hub-bar failure and the influence of flight loads, maintenance activities and design. Historical, current and possible future safety action was outlined, as were avenues for future investigation of the relevant safety issues.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 200405511
Occurrence date 13/10/2004
Location Thargomindah, (ALA)
Report release date 29/06/2006
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Highest injury level Fatal