What happened
On 23 January 2013, a Rotorsport UK Calidus, registration G-CGJD, was performing a private flight at Kirkbride Airfield in Cumbria. During the landing sequence on Runway 10, the pilot initiated the flare slightly before the aircraft reached the runway. This action resulted in an extended float period just above the ground.
As the aircraft eventually made contact with the surface, it bounced and subsequently rolled over to the right side. The incident occurred during favorable weather conditions characterized by light winds. While the aircraft sustained damage to its rotor, propeller, canopy, and tail surfaces, the pilot escaped with only light bruising.
The investigation
An investigation into the accident was conducted following the submission of an aircraft accident report by the pilot. The inquiry focused on the flight parameters during the final approach and the mechanics of the touchdown. Investigators examined the sequence of the landing maneuver, specifically noting the timing of the flare and the resulting aerodynamic behavior of the gyroplane as it approached the runway surface.