What happened
On October 2, 2023, a Magni M1lar M16 gyroplane, identified as 29SR, was performing a local flight near the Granit Rose coast. After approximately 45 minutes of flight time, the pilot returned to Morlaix-Ploujean aerodrome and reported being on final approach for runway 15. Shortly after touchdown, the aircraft tipped onto its left side at the intersection of the grass runways. Witnesses on the apron discovered the pilot unconscious near the overturned aircraft. The pilot sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft wreckage, meteorological conditions, and the pilot's medical history. Examination of the Magni M16 revealed no mechanical failures or technical issues contributing to the loss of control; specifically, the connection between the fork tube and the square pivot was intact. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's medical status, noting that while he had been flying since May 2023 following an ankle operation, he was managing chronic heart failure and stable angina.
Meteorological data indicated favorable VFR conditions with a ceiling of 1,500 ft and visibility exceeding 10 km. However, a significant right-hand crosswind of approximately 15 knots was present at the time of the accident.
Findings
- The aircraft tipped onto its left side during the landing run, likely caused by the crosswind acting on the rotor.
- In gyroplane operations, a right-hand crosswind requires specific stick and pedal inputs to maintain alignment; if the rotor tilts toward the left, wind can catch the underside of the rotor and tip the aircraft.
- The pilot had a significant underlying cardiovascular pathology, including diffuse arterial lesions and a history of bypass surgery, which placed him at high risk of sudden death.
- The investigation could not definitively determine if a medical event (cardiac distress) triggered the loss of control or if the aircraft's upset caused the fatal medical event.