Talgarth Airfield crash caused by crosswinds, investigators find

An investigation by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) has concluded that heavy crosswinds and turbulence likely caused a glider tug aircraft to crash near Talgarth Airfield on December 27, 2025. The pilot, an 81-year-old with over 2,200 flying hours, sustained serious injuries in the accident.

The Eurofox 2K aircraft was towing a two-seat glider when it experienced an uncommanded roll of approximately 60 degrees to the left shortly after takeoff. While the glider disconnected and landed safely, the tug aircraft lost control, briefly touched down, and then stalled into an adjacent field.

Investigators noted that winds were blowing directly across the runway at 12 to 16 knots, with gusts reaching 23 knots, which may have exceeded the aircraft’s maximum approved crosswind limit of 15 knots. No mechanical faults were found. In response to the incident, the Black Mountains Gliding Club has improved its weather reporting systems and safety culture.