What happened
On 5 June 2011, a Rotorsport UK MTOSport, registration G-CGGV, was performing a private flight departing from Runway 03 at Culbokie Airfield, near Dingwall. The aircraft's takeoff weight was 489 kg, which remained below the 500 kg maximum limit. While the initial takeoff appeared normal, the pilot initiated a left turn of approximately 90 degrees along the extended centerline to avoid nearby trees. During this maneuver, the aircraft was caught by a strong wind gust that shifted direction by nearly 90 degrees. This sudden change in wind placed the gyroplane in a downwind position, making it impossible to maintain the necessary angle of climb. Consequently, the rotor blades struck the top of a tree.
Following the strike, the pilot performed a controlled descent into a nearby clearing. Due to the limited space available for the landing, the aircraft experienced a heavy impact. The nose landing gear detached from the airframe, and the underside of the pod sustained damage. The flailing rotor blades also caused damage to the rudder.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. Investigators examined the flight conditions, noting that while the weather was generally CAVOK with light and variable winds from the north-northeast, there were occasional stronger gusts. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's weight and balance, confirming the takeoff weight was within permitted limits, and assessed the pilot's experience and the sequence of the maneuver relative to the wind conditions.