The ATSB is investigating a collision with terrain involving a Magni M16C Tandem gyroplane, registered G1850, at Lake Macquarie Airport, New South Wales, on 12 May 2023.
A Magni M16C Tandem gyroplane, with an instructor pilot and student pilot on-board, commenced take-off from runway 07. As the gyroplane became airborne, the instructor pilot saw an Extra EA 300L aircraft, registered VH-IOG, with a pilot and passenger on-board, backtracking towards them on runway 07. The instructor pilot took evasive action to avoid a collision, and the gyroplane subsequently collided with terrain resulting in substantial damage. The instructor pilot received serious injuries while the student pilot had minor injuries. The pilot and passenger on-board VH-IOG were uninjured and there was no damage to the aircraft.
The evidence collection phase of the investigation will include collection of relevant information, including recorded data, weather observations, pilot and witness reports, and radio calls.
A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.