A PILOT lost control of a plane and crashed while trying to land in heavy winds at a major UK airport.

The aircraft was left "severely damaged" after also suffering a runway excursion with the left wing tip hitting the grass.

A report with full findings into the incident at Stansted Airport in Essex will be released later this year.

Strong crosswinds meant the plane floated above the runway for several seconds. No passengers or staff were injured.

A spokesperson for the Air Accidents Investigations Branch (AAIB), who look into all incidents involving aircraft, said: "The stick pusher activated at some point causing the aircraft to bounce onto its nosewheel.

"A go-around was executed after which the crew elected to divert to London Gatwick Airport.

"There were no injuries, but the aircraft was severely damaged.

"The investigation is nearly complete and the final report into the accident is expected to be published later this year."

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