Gyrocopter with two Slovenians crashes near Vrsar, Croatia; both injured but refuse hospital treatment

A gyrocopter carrying two Slovenian men crashed shortly after takeoff near the Vrsar airport in Croatia's Istria region. Croatian media reported that the two individuals, aged 57 and 72, were found outside the aircraft by rescue teams.

The pilot, reportedly a member of the Vrsar Aeroclub and a regular flyer on the Vrsar-Celje route, intended to fly towards Celje. However, the gyrocopter, a hybrid of an airplane and helicopter, plummeted from an approximate height of two meters immediately after takeoff. The pilot suffered minor injuries to his forearm and shin, while the other passenger sustained a head wound requiring five stitches.

Emergency medical services at the scene confirmed both men were conscious, in stable condition, and not in life-threatening danger. Despite recommendations for further hospital observation due to the circumstances, they both declined additional treatment, signing waivers.

The cause of the crash is currently under investigation by the relevant agency for traffic accident inquiries in aviation. This incident marks the second aviation accident in Istria in less than a week. Last Thursday, a small aircraft crashed near the Medulin sports airport, resulting in the deaths of four Austrian citizens, including businessman Walter Pondorfer.