CEN22LA311

The pilot reported a partial loss of engine power during cruise flight. The gyroplane impacted a power line and trees during the subsequent forced landing. The fuselage and empennage sustained substantial damaged during the impact. About 1 cup of water was recovered from the fuel tank/lines. A subsequent engine test run performed by the pilot/owner did not reveal any anomalies with respect to normal operation. The pilot stated that he was diligent in obtaining preflight fuel samples and was uncertain how any water could have been introduced into the fuel system. After an approximate 2-hour flight since refueling, the likelihood of a fuel contamination event was remote. However, based on the subsequent engine run with no anomalies noted, the reason for the partial loss of engine power could not be determined.

On July 1, 2022, about 1230 central daylight time, a Rotorsport UK Ltd MTOSport 2017 gyroplane, N44AL, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Mead, Oklahoma. The pilot was not injured. The gyroplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. The pilot reported initially departing about 0800. He landed “off field to visit a friend” and subsequently departed again about 1100. During that flight, he experienced a partial loss of engine power while in cruise flight. The gyroplane impacted a power line and trees during the forced landing. The fuselage and empennage sustained substantial damaged during the impact. The gyrocopter was recovered from the site 2 days after the accident. The pilot/owner stated that the engine assembly appeared intact and undamaged, and engine control continuity was confirmed. All fuel lines were secure with no chafing damage. About 1 cup of water was recovered from the fuel tank/lines. The fuel tank cap was securely installed, and the seal appeared intact. After installation of a new propeller, an engine test run was conducted by the pilot/owner. It started with some difficulty; however, once it was running, the operation smoothed out and it ran without any obvious anomalies. The aircraft fuel pump operated normally when tested. The pilot noted that the gyroplane was refueled with automotive fuel before the initial flight of the day, and directly from a gas station. He did not use any type of intermediate container such as fuel cans to transfer fuel to the gyroplane and was diligent in obtaining preflight fuel samples. He was uncertain how any water could have been introduced into the fuel system.