What happened
On 28 February 2014, a Rotorsport UK MTOsport, registration G-GSMT, was performing a private flight returning to Stonehill Farm from Kirkbride Airfield. While flying at approximately 500 ft agl along the Snar Water river valley, the pilot encountered several seagulls. At least one bird struck the propeller, resulting in a loud noise and intense vibrations throughout the airframe and control stick.
To mitigate the vibration, the pilot reduced the engine to idle power. Seeking an immediate landing site, the pilot identified a field adjacent to the river. However, the approach was interrupted by the discovery of low-level electricity cables that the aircraft lacked the altitude or airspeed to clear. In an attempt to avoid the wires, the pilot turned left toward the river. Due to insufficient energy, the aircraft performed a controlled landing in the water, which was between 1 and 2 feet deep.
As the aircraft crossed the river, the rotor blades struck the steep far bank, causing the gyroplane to roll violently onto its right side. The aircraft came to rest partially submerged. Both the pilot and the passenger, who sustained no injuries, were able to unstrap and exit the aircraft safely.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events following the propeller damage and the subsequent landing maneuvers. Investigators examined the impact of the bird strike on the engine's operation and the pilot's decision-making regarding the landing site. The investigation also looked at the physical circumstances of the landing, including the presence of overhead cables and the topography of the riverbank.