What happened
On 28 July 2016, a Rotorsport UK MT-02 gyroplane, registration G-MEPU, was involved in a fatal accident at Turweston Aerodrome, Buckinghamshire. The pilot, who was completing a training course for a gyroplane licence, was performing a solo flight intended for practice ahead of an upcoming flight test.
After completing an initial flight earlier in the day, the pilot commenced a second flight at 10:03 hrs. While returning to the airfield to perform low approaches and go-arounds, the pilot communicated his intention to the flight information service. The aircraft appeared to be in a normal powered approach on Runway 27. As the pilot initiated a go-around manoeuvre just above the runway, the aircraft suddenly rolled to one side and entered a steep dive. The gyroplane struck the asphalt runway approximately 580 m from the threshold. The impact resulted in the destruction of the aircraft and the death of the pilot.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage of G-MEPU and found no evidence of mechanical failure or pre-existing defects. The engine, fuel systems, and control components were all found to be in working order, with no signs of failure prior to the impact. Witnesses at the aerodrome observed the aircraft in a normal flight state before the sudden roll and descent.
Medical evidence played a critical role in the investigation. While the official cause of death was the injuries sustained in the crash, a post-mortem examination revealed that the pilot suffered from severe coronary artery atherosclerosis. This condition was significant enough that it could have been a cause of sudden death on its own.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in favourable weather conditions with no mechanical issues identified.
- The accident occurred during a routine training manoeuvre.
- A sudden cardiac event likely caused the pilot to become incapacitated, leading to the loss of control of the aircraft.