Black Isle aircraft crash gets investigation update two years on
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Investigators have issued an update on a fatal small aircraft crash on the two year anniversary of the tragedy.
Paul Nichol, from Balloch near Inverness, died when his light aircraft crashed in a field near Avoch on November 12, 2020.
The gyrocopter he was in was seen falling quickly with its rotor head and blades separate from the rest of the aircraft moments before a fatal crash on the Black Isle.
The light aircraft was spotted descending from an altitude of 457m (1500ft).
Mr Nichol was described as a student pilot and was flying solo at the time of the incident.
The Air Accidents Investigation Branch said: "It is now two years since this tragic accident and are our thoughts are with the family of the pilot.
"Whilst on a general handling flight with a solo student pilot onboard, the gyroplane was seen to descend rapidly from an altitude of approximately 1,500 ft with the rotor head and blades separate from the fuselage. The gyroplane subsequently crashed on farmland and caught fire, with the pilot receiving fatal injuries.
"The main wreckage was largely destroyed in the fire, but analysis of the remaining evidence has been possible. The investigation is focused on understanding the circumstances which led to the rotor head separating in flight.
"Analysis of recorded data from the accident is now complete. Further testing of the rotor head is ongoing. Once this testing has been carried out and the necessary analysis completed, the AAIB will publish its investigation findings in a final report."
The alarm was raised around 12.55pm on the day of the crash and four fire appliances, as well as two ambulances, were sent to the scene.
In a statement from his family, which was issued shortly after the tragedy, they said flying gave him a sense of freedom and adventure.
They said: “Words can’t express how much I’ll miss him, as will all his family, friends and past work colleagues.
“Nothing will ever get close to explaining the depth of pain and sadness we all feel.”
