What happened
On 18 June 2000, a Pottier P80S, registration G-BTYH, was performing a private flight at Tatenhill Airfield in Staffordshire. As the pilot was approaching Runway 08 for landing, a sudden gust of wind caused the right wing to lift. Although the pilot attempted to correct the aircraft's attitude, the plane bounced upon contact with the runway and veered toward the right.
In an attempt to regain control and prevent the aircraft from exiting the airfield, the pilot applied full power. However, upon realizing that the aircraft was on a trajectory toward a nearby field of standing corn, the pilot closed the throttle. The aircraft subsequently entered the cornfield, resulting in general damage to the cockpit area and the underside of the plane. The pilot was able to exit the aircraft without injury after releasing the four-point upper torso restraint.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form provided by the pilot. Investigators examined the sequence of events leading to the loss of directional control and the subsequent impact with the field. The examination focused on the atmospheric conditions at the time of landing and the pilot's subsequent actions regarding engine power management.