What happened
On 26 May 2017, a Zenair CH 701SP, registration G-TORI, was performing a private flight at Old Sarum Airfield in Wiltshire. During the approach to the grass runway 06, wind conditions were recorded at 120 degrees with a speed of 14 knots. As the aircraft was nearing the point of touchdown, a sudden gust of wind caught the right wing, lifting it and forcing the aircraft into a left-hand turn. The pilot attempted to correct the deviation, but these inputs failed to maintain control, leading the aircraft to stall into the ground. The initial impact involved the propeller, the nose, and the left wingtip, followed by the right wingtip striking the surface. Despite the impact, the pilot and the single passenger, both of whom were secured in full harnesses, were able to exit the aircraft without injury.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report provided by the pilot and the airfield incident report from the Old Sarum Airfield operator. The examination focused on the sequence of the landing and the impact of environmental conditions on the aircraft's stability. The inspection of the aircraft revealed significant damage to the fuselage, wings, landing gear, and propeller, noting that the engine had also sustained shock-loading from the impact.