What happened
On 27 May 2020, a Rotorsport UK MTOsport gyroplane, registration G-TYRO, was conducting a private flight near York, North Yorkshire. After completing two successful circuits involving full-stop landings, the pilot departed for a brief local flight. Upon returning to Rufforth Airfield, the pilot joined the traffic pattern and commenced a powered approach to Runway 05. The weather conditions at the time were favorable, characterized by good visibility and a light crosswind originating from the left.
As the aircraft entered the flare phase of the landing, a sudden, strong gust from the left side struck the gyroplane. This wind burst caused the aircraft to yaw into the wind. Because the aircraft was at a very low airspeed, the pilot was unable to correct the yaw before the wheels made contact with the runway. Immediately following touchdown, the aircraft rolled over to the right.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report submitted by the pilot. The examination focused on the sequence of the landing and the impact of the meteorological conditions. The investigation confirmed that the pilot was uninjured and exited the aircraft without assistance. The physical evidence showed that the aircraft sustained damage to the rotor blades, the propeller, the nose leg, and the right side of the fuselage.