What happened
On 23 October 2010, a Flight Design CTSW, registration G-CEDM, was completing a local flight from North Coates Airfield in Lincolnshire. During the initial departure, the wind was westerly at approximately 20 knots. However, upon returning one hour later, the pilot observed that the wind had shifted to a northerly direction, blowing across the runway, with speeds estimated between 25 and 30 knots.
To mitigate the high crosswind, the pilot opted to land on a shorter grass strip adjacent to the threshold of Runway 23. While the approach initially appeared stable, the pilot aborted the landing attempt just before touchdown. During the subsequent go-around, the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 80 feet. As the pilot attempted a right turn to avoid a nearby tree line, the aircraft experienced a rapid roll to the right. Despite the application of full left rudder and left aft stick, the aircraft did not respond, causing the right wingtip to strike the ground. The aircraft then cartwheeled, resulting in the total destruction of the airframe.
Both the pilot and the passenger, who were wearing four-point harnesses, exited the wreckage without assistance. The pilot sustained a broken left ankle and whiplash, while the passenger suffered whiplash injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the wind conditions and the aircraft's performance during the aborted landing. It was noted that the pilot's experience included previous landings on the north-south grass area. The investigation also reviewed the aircraft's Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH), which specifies that flight operations should be ceased in gusty winds or when wind speeds exceed 21 knots. The pilot's assessment of the accident attributed the event to the aircraft encountering turbulent air near the tree tops during the maneuver.