What happened
On 1 May 2009, a Gemini Flash IIA, registration G-MWZC, was conducting a private flight from Otherton, Staffordshire, to Chirk Airfield in Clwyd. The airfield features two grass landing strips, designated Runway 01/19 and Runway 15/33, which are identified by ground tracks rather than painted markings.
During the approach to the airfield, the pilot became preoccupied with evaluating the condition of the runway surface. This distraction occurred while the pilot was attempting to track the centerline of Runway 19. As the aircraft descended, a sudden and violent gust of wind caused the aircraft to drift to the left. At an altitude of approximately 50 feet, the aircraft's path was obscured by trees located along the eastern edge of the runway. Although the pilot attempted an immediate climb, the aircraft struck the trees in a level attitude and became lodged in the vegetation. The impact also damaged a power line running through the area. The pilot sustained minor injuries, and the aircraft suffered extensive damage. The North Wales Fire Service assisted the pilot in exiting the wreckage.
The investigation
The investigation established that the wind conditions had increased to 15 knots near the runway, and the pilot had not sufficiently accounted for these wind effects. Furthermore, the investigation found that the pilot's National Private Pilot’s Licence had expired on 17 November 2008, due to a misunderstanding regarding recent re-validation regulations.