What happened
On 6 May 2001, a Socata TB10, registration G-OFLG, was conducting a private flight from Old Sarum to Lands End with two passengers on board. After an uneventful initial leg, the pilot reviewed updated weather information at Old Sarum, noting that winds at Lands End had increased to 20 knots, gusting to 25 knots. To avoid a significant crosswind component on Runway 07, the pilot elected to land on Runway 03.
During the approach, the aircraft flew a left-hand visual circuit at 1,000 feet. As the aircraft crossed a valley, the pilot noted an increased rate of descent. Although a throttle increase temporarily stabilized the airspeed at 75 kt, the glidepath became shallower than planned. Near the end of the final approach, the rate of descent increased once more. The pilot applied full power in an attempt to execute a go-around, but the aircraft's speed had depleted. The left landing gear struck a dry stone wall approximately 15 inches below its top, subsequently hitting a runway marker board. The aircraft then slid westward, coming to a stop across the airfield's western boundary road. The impact caused no fatalities or injuries, though the aircraft suffered extensive damage to both wings, a detached nose and left main gear, and a bent propeller.
The investigation
The investigation examined the aircraft's weight, balance, and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The aircraft was within its maximum landing weight, and the center of gravity was positioned mid-range. Calculations based on the flight manual suggested that the available landing distance on the dry grass runway should have been sufficient under calm conditions. The investigation also looked into the pilot's decision-making regarding the wind conditions and the impact of the terrain on the approach stability.