What happened
On 13 September 2016, a Rotorsport UK MTOsport, registration G-CGZM, was returning to Headon Airfield in Nottinghamshire following a local flight. The flight was being conducted as a private operation with one pilot and one passenger on board. Weather conditions were clear with a temperature of 25°C and light winds.
During the approach to Runway 32, the pilot found the aircraft was higher and closer to the runway than expected. After crossing the threshold and traveling 100 metres along the grass runway, the aircraft was at an altitude of 50 ft. The pilot initiated a go-around by applying full power and nose-up pitch; however, the aircraft failed to climb, instead descending to approximately 35 ft at an airspeed of 40 mph.
To avoid several residential buildings located just beyond the airfield boundary, the pilot opted to land immediately. The aircraft touched down on a clear area near the end of the runway. While the landing itself was successful and the aircraft came to a stop after a short ground roll, the slowing rotor blades drooped and struck a nearby hedge, causing damage to the rotor blades. There were no injuries to the occupants.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the circumstances surrounding the flight performance and the pilot's decision-making. The investigation noted that the aircraft's total weight, including fuel and occupants, was only 35 kg below its maximum takeoff weight. The investigators also reviewed the impact of ambient temperature on gyrocopter performance, referencing CAA guidance which states that performance is noticeably reduced on warm summer days between 20°C and 30°C.
Findings
- The pilot's decision to attempt a go-around was made too late in the approach.
- The pilot underestimated how the high ambient temperature and the aircraft's weight would affect performance.
- The aircraft's climb performance was insufficient to complete the intended go-around.
- The pilot did not notice the proximity of the rotor blades to the hedge as the engine was shut down and the blades slowed.