What happened
On 6 March 2010, a Rotorsport UK MT-03 gyroplane, registration G-CFCG, was conducting solo training maneuvers at Rufforth Airfield East, York. The student pilot had previously completed several successful runway and circuit flights earlier that day, having undergone dual instruction covering glide approaches and crosswind techniques.
During the eighth circuit of the flight, the pilot attempted to vacate the runway. The landing was characterized by a long touchdown and a round-out that was slightly too high, which led to a loss of airspeed. Upon contact with the runway, the aircraft bounced and began rolling toward the right side. In an attempt to recover, the pilot applied power to initiate a go-around maneuver. However, this action resulted in a loss of control; the aircraft yawed to the left and subsequently rolled onto its right side. The impact caused the rotors to strike the ground, resulting in a bent chassis, damaged control rods, and damage to the nacelle. The pilot sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight sequence and the pilot's recent training history. It was established that the student pilot had completed a dual check with an instructor on the same day, which included practice for various flight conditions. The investigation reviewed the aircraft's performance during the landing phase, noting the loss of airspeed due to the high round-out and the subsequent instability during the attempted go-around.