What happened
On 9 October 2008, a Rotorsport UK MT-03 gyroplane, registration G-TATA, departed from Sleap Airfield in Shropshire for a private flight to City Airport Manchester (Barton). The flight was conducted with a pilot and one passenger. During the flight, the pilot encountered radio difficulties and adjusted the route to avoid a military air traffic zone, which necessitated an increase in speed to maintain the schedule.
As the aircraft joined the circuit at Barton, the pilot initiated a final approach with a nose-down attitude to achieve a target speed of 70 mph. During this maneuver, the engine stopped due to fuel starvation. At an altitude of approximately 200 ft, the pilot transitioned to a glide speed of 45 mph and maneuvered to avoid residential buildings. While attempting to increase speed by lowering the nose, the aircraft descended rapidly. The pilot performed a late flare to cushion the impact, but the aircraft struck the ground heavily. The landing gear collapsed, causing substantial damage to the airframe, rotor head, and rotors. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained serious injuries, specifically fractured vertebrae.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation examined the fuel levels and the aircraft's mechanical state. Investigators found approximately 6 litres of fuel remaining in the tank. The investigation also reviewed the manufacturer's documentation, noting that the MT-03 pilot's handbook warns that a nose-down attitude can increase the amount of unusable fuel in the tanks. Furthermore, the investigation looked into the seat construction, noting that the GRP seats were fitted with industrial foam cushions that were not specifically designed for energy absorption during heavy landings.
Findings
- The engine stopped because the fuel supply was interrupted by fuel starvation.
- The nose-down attitude required for the approach caused the fuel to be unable to reach the engine.
- The pilot had insufficient usable fuel for the intended flight.
- The aircraft's seat cushions provided inadequate protection against the vertical deceleration forces experienced during the impact.