What happened
On 26 December 2007, a Cessna 182G Skylane, registration G-ASSF, was performing a private flight from Eddsfield Airfield in East Yorkshire. The aircraft was properly loaded and within its permitted weight and centre of gravity limits. During the takeoff roll on Runway 27, the pilot configured the aircraft with flaps set to 20 and applied up elevator and left aileron.
As the aircraft reached a speed of 55 kt, it encountered a gusty crosswind, with winds recorded from 191º between 6 kt and 9 kt. Under these conditions, the aircraft became light on its wheels and yawed to the left, causing the left wing to drop. The aircraft subsequently struck the soft ground and came to rest in an inverted position. There was no fire following the impact, and the pilot and three passengers were able to exit the aircraft through the left door. There were no injuries reported among the occupants.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's configuration and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. It was established that the aircraft's weight and balance were within legal limits. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's experience and the impact of the wind conditions on the aircraft's stability during the takeoff roll.