What happened
On September 17, 2022, at 16:10 UTC, an Ela Ela 10-Eclipse gyroplane, registration TC-UYB, operated by Uludağ Uçuş Okulları ve Genel Havacılık A.Ş., departed from Bursa Yunuseli Landing Strip for a visual flight rules (VFR) recreational flight. The aircraft was carrying the pilot and one passenger.
While flying over the Mudanya district, the pilot experienced a momentary change in engine sound and perceived a loss of power. Although the pilot initially attempted to continue flight by performing engine checks, the perceived issue persisted for approximately two minutes. Realizing the aircraft could not reach the planned alternate airport, the pilot initiated an emergency landing. The aircraft descended into an olive grove in the Aydınlı village area. There were no fatalities or injuries during the incident, though the aircraft sustained light damage to the rotor blades, tail section, cockpit, engine radiator, and landing gear. Damage was also noted to the olive trees in the area.
The investigation
The UEİM investigation examined the aircraft's Turbo Control Unit (TCU) data, flight logs, and meteorological conditions. The investigation established that the engine had not recorded any actual failure, power loss, or shutdown prior to the event. Furthermore, the investigation reviewed the pilot's credentials, the aircraft's maintenance history, and the flight planning documentation. The investigation also noted that the flight plan was not prepared in accordance with the required coordinate writing standards and that the aircraft lacked a valid Radio Station License from the Coastal Safety General Directorate.
Findings
- The investigation determined that the perceived engine failure was actually a pilot error caused by the pilot misinterpreting the change in aircraft sound and lift characteristics—resulting from an increased climb angle and subsequent change in rotor blade pitch—as a loss of engine power.
- The pilot's flight path was not in compliance with the Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) recommendation to avoid flying over areas where a forced landing cannot be safely executed.
- The flight planning was inadequate, as the scheduled return to the departure point or diversion to the alternate airport (Bursa Yenişehir) would have resulted in the flight transitioning into night conditions, making VFR flight impossible.
- The aircraft was operating without a valid Radio Station License.
- The flight plan did not adhere to the coordinate notation requirements specified in the Türkiye AIP.