AAIB investigation to Rotorsport UK MTOsport, G-GSMT

Forced landing in a river after a birdstrike on the propeller, near Crawfordjohn, Lanarkshire, 28 February 2014.

Summary:

One or more seagulls struck the propeller when the aircraft was flying at a height of 500 ft agl. The propeller was damaged and this caused severe vibration, which necessitated a reduction to idle power. During the subsequent forced landing, avoiding action had to be taken when wires were spotted just prior to touchdown. The aircraft landed upright in a shallow river but the rotors struck the far river bank and the aircraft rolled onto its side. The occupants made their own escape and were not injured.

Download report:

Rotorsport UK MTOsport G-GSMT 07-14.pdf (153.46 kb)

Published 10 December 2014