What happened
On 26 February 2001, a Jurca Sirocco, registration G-BUGC, was conducting a brief test flight at Swanton Morley Airfield in Norfolk. The primary purpose of the flight was to verify the functionality and indications of the aircraft's undercarriage system. Meteorological conditions at the time included a surface wind from 190 degrees at 10 to 12 knots, with good visibility and no significant weather.
After successfully completing the undercarriage checks in the air, the pilot returned to the airfield to land on Runway 27. During the left-hand circuit, the pilot noted that the windsock suggested a southerly wind of 10 to 15 knots. Anticipating potential turbulence below 300 feet, the pilot increased engine power to maintain an approach speed of 75 mph while configured with gear down and half flaps.
While on short finals, a sudden gust of wind caused the aircraft to roll to the right. Despite the pilot applying full left lateral control and increasing power, the right wingtip made contact with the ground. The impact caused the aircraft to cartwheel, eventually coming to rest in an inverted position. The pilot remained inside the cockpit until airfield personnel arrived to lift the aircraft, which provided enough space for him to crawl out. There were no injuries to the pilot, but the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. Investigators examined the flight sequence, the environmental conditions, and the pilot's actions during the final approach to determine the cause of the loss of control.