What happened
On 23 June 2007, a Taylor Monoplane, registration G-BFDZ, was performing a private flight approaching Runway 27 at Garston Farm Airfield in Marshfield, Wiltshire. The wind conditions at the time were estimated at 250 degrees with a speed of 15-17 knots.
The approach proceeded normally, with the indicated airspeed dropping from 60 kt to 50 kt as the aircraft crossed the threshold. However, approximately 50 metres beyond the threshold, at an altitude of roughly 8 metres, the pilot encountered a sudden loss of lift. In an effort to maintain airspeed, the pilot applied full throttle and lowered the nose. This maneuver resulted in the aircraft striking the ground in a nose-low attitude. The impact caused the engine and the main spar to detach from the fuselage, and the landing gear was bent. The aircraft came to rest with its tail elevated on the remains of the forward cockpit. The pilot was able to evacuate through the detached canopy and sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation was based on the aircraft accident report form submitted by the pilot. The examination focused on the sequence of events during the final stages of the approach and the structural failure of the airframe upon impact. The pilot noted that the loss of lift was likely due to a sudden change in wind conditions.