What happened
On 20 May 2012, a Rotorsport UK Calidus gyroplane, registration G-CGLY, was conducting a private flight from Perranporth. While the pilot was executing a 360° steep turn on a northerly track back toward the airfield, the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power.
In response to the power loss, the pilot identified a suitable field near Falmouth on Cornwall's north coast for an emergency landing. During the approach to the field, the pilot failed to notice small power lines crossing the nearby boundary. The aircraft struck these lines, resulting in damage to the rotor blade, the roll control cable, and the rotor mast fairing. Despite the impact, the pilot managed to complete the landing safely. No injuries were reported.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the accident report submitted by the pilot and verbal information provided by the gyroplane manufacturer. Following the incident, the aircraft was sent to the manufacturer for a detailed assessment and repair. During subsequent engine testing, the Rotax 912 ULS piston engine operated normally, with no mechanical faults or underlying conditions identified that would explain the loss of power.
Findings
- The pilot's failure to identify the power lines during the forced landing approach was a contributing factor to the impact.
- The engine loss of power occurred during a steep turn, though no mechanical cause was found during post-accident testing.