What happened
On 27 July 2017, a Rotorsport UK MTOsport, registration G-CGPG, was performing a private flight near Swanley, Kent. After departing from Crouch Farm Strip for Rochester Airport, the pilot elected to return to the departure airfield due to a radio malfunction.
As the aircraft approached the grass runway, the pilot observed a windsock indicating a wind of 230 degrees at 12 knots, which appeared consistent with takeoff conditions. However, just prior to touchdown, the gyroplane veered to the left. During the attempt to correct the deviation, the rotor blades made contact with the ground. The impact caused the rotor mast to break and collapse, and the propeller sustained damage. Despite the severe damage to the rotor blades, mast, and propeller, the aircraft remained upright and the pilot escaped the cockpit without any injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the pilot's flight controls and the environmental conditions at the airfield. The pilot suggested that the sudden deviation was likely caused by low-level windshear, potentially triggered by an adjacent crop approximately two feet in height.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's control inputs and recent flying experience. It was noted that the pilot had relatively low flying hours within the preceding 90 days. The investigation looked into whether sufficient rudder authority was maintained during the critical moments of the landing sequence.