What happened
On 27 October 2007, a Bellanca 7GCBC Citabria, registration G-BRJW, was conducting a private flight at Old Buckenham Airfield in Norfolk. The aircraft, carrying a pilot and one passenger, was operating in hazy conditions with a surface wind of approximately 8-10 knots from 210 degrees. During the initial approach to the asphalt runway, the aircraft encountered turbulence and bounced upon touchdown. The pilot subsequently initiated a go-around.
On the second approach, the aircraft touched down on all three wheels. However, the pilot was slow to respond to the effects of a 6-knot crosswind, causing the into-wind wing to lift and the aircraft to yaw to the left. The aircraft drifted across the grass area toward the airfield clubhouse and nearby parked aircraft. In an attempt to regain control, the pilot applied full power and forward elevator to lift the tail, but the soft ground prevented sufficient acceleration. The aircraft entered a nose-high attitude, causing the left wing to strike the ground. This triggered a cartwheel that left the aircraft upright roughly 30 meters from the club hangar and a parked fuel tanker.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's mechanical condition and the pilot's recent training history. There were no signs of any mechanical failures that contributed to the loss of control. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's recent flight experience and training, noting that the pilot had recently completed refresher training on crosswind techniques and was considered capable of handling the prevailing weather conditions.
Findings
- The aircraft sustained significant damage to the fuselage, both wingtips, and the entire structure forward of the instrument panel.
- The pilot failed to apply sufficient into-wind aileron and opposite rudder to counteract the crosswind component.
- The aircraft ground looped due to an inadequate response to the crosswind during touchdown.
- Both occupants sustained minor injuries and were able to exit the wreckage without assistance.