What happened
On May 18, 2023, a Nisus Aero Nisus gyrocopter, registration OM-M199, was conducting a VFR flight from Nemčice-Topoľčany toward Leszno, Poland. The pilot had informed Bratislava Flight Information Centre (FIC) of his intention to fly to an aircraft exhibition. Throughout the flight, the pilot maintained radio contact with FIC Bratislava, reporting various positions and altitudes.
As the flight progressed, meteorological conditions deteriorated. Radar data indicates that the aircraft briefly crossed into Polish airspace at approximately 5,550 feet, flying within or above a layer of clouds and fog. At some point during the final stages of the flight, the pilot began a descent, likely in an attempt to regain visual contact with the ground due to the worsening weather. During this maneuver, the rotor of the OM-M199 struck the tops of trees near Novoť, leading to a loss of control and a subsequent crash into the forested terrain. The impact was followed by a massive fire that completely destroyed the aircraft. The pilot sustained fatal injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined radar records, radio communications, and meteorological data from the Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute. Investigators also analyzed a screenshot from the aircraft's AETOS flight display, which captured engine parameters at high power. Toxicological analysis confirmed that the pilot was not under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident, and medical examinations showed no underlying health conditions that could have caused the event. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's maintenance history, noting it was within its service intervals.
Findings
- The pilot conducted a VFR flight despite weather forecasts indicating unsuitable conditions along the route.
- The aircraft was flying in conditions worse than VMC, characterized by overcast skies and visibility as low as 100 meters due to heavy fog.
- The pilot likely experienced a loss of orientation and situational awareness while navigating through low clouds and fog.
- The pilot's frequent changes in course during the final 45 minutes of flight suggested difficulty maintaining precise positioning.
- The aircraft was mechanically sound and fully functional prior to the collision.