Two killed as gyrocopter hits cable in Italy

Two killed as gyrocopter hits cable in Italy

Two people were killed after a gyrocopter crashed into a cable in northern Italy on Wednesday, according to international media reports.

The accident occurred at around 11:30 a.m. local time in the northern region of Piedmont, a popular tourist destination known for its scenic lakes and mountains. The gyrocopter reportedly struck a cable in the area before crashing.

Footage of the incident has also emerged on social media, showing the aircraft losing control after hitting the cable and subsequently crashing.

Both people on board died at the scene. Authorities identified the victims as 62-year-old Alessandro Angelo Masinelli and 63-year-old Antonella Paglierani. Both victims were Italian nationals.

Emergency and rescue teams reached the crash site following the incident and began examining the circumstances surrounding the accident. Authorities are expected to investigate how the gyrocopter came into contact with the cable and whether any technical or operational factors contributed to the crash..

A gyrocopter, also known as an autogyro, is a lightweight aircraft that resembles a helicopter but operates differently. Unlike a conventional helicopter, its main rotor generally spins freely because of airflow rather than being powered directly by the engine. The aircraft uses an engine-driven propeller for forward movement.

Gyrocopters commonly carry two people and are often used for recreational flying, sightseeing and low-altitude flights, particularly in scenic and mountainous areas. Their relatively small size allows them to operate in areas where larger aircraft may not be practical.