Pilot Did Not Have Sufficient Time To Attempt An Engine Restart And Performed A Forced Landing

Location: Mount Sterling, IL Accident Number: CEN24LA013
Date & Time: October 16, 2023, 13:15 Local Registration: N90HM
Aircraft: Magni M24 Injuries: 2 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On October 16, 2023, about 1315 central daylight time, a Magni M24 gyroplane, N90HM, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Mount Sterling, Illinois. Both the pilot and passenger received minor injuries. The gyroplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

According to preliminary information, the experimental gyroplane was on downwind for runway 36 at the Mount Sterling Municipal Airport (I63), when the engine sustained a total loss power. The pilot did not have sufficient time to attempt an engine restart and performed a forced landing to a flat grass field. During the forced landing, the gyroplane rolled over and  sustained substantial damage to the rotor system, left horizontal, and vertical stabilizer. During the recovery of the gyroplane, the smell of automotive fuel was present with soil discoloration around the area of the fuel cap.

The gyroplane was equipped with a Rotax 914 UL reciprocating engine. The gyroplane was retained for further examination. 

FMI: www.ntsb.gov