What happened
On 20 May 2025, a Bristell NG5 (registration G-STEL) departed Nether Huntlywood Airfield for a planned flight to Kingsmuir Airfield. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot reduced engine power and initiated a right turn, appearing to attempt a return to the departure airfield. As the aircraft maneuvered to align with the reciprocal runway, it entered a patch of cloud. CCTV footage and flight data indicate that upon emerging from the cloud, the aircraft was in a steep nose-down attitude with an increasing bank angle. The aircraft subsequently entered a spiral descent and struck the ground, resulting in one fatality.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the wreckage and recovered data from the aircraft's Primary Flight Display, Engine Monitoring System, and a navigation tablet. Analysis of the engine and flight controls revealed no mechanical failures; the engine was functioning normally and power was actually increasing in the final seconds before impact. Meteorological analysis showed that while the local sea fog, known as haar, was clearing, pockets of cloud remained in the area. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's medical history and the airfield's operational procedures. The post-mortem examination found no evidence of natural disease or toxicology that would have caused a loss of control.
Findings
- The pilot likely decided to return to Nether Huntlywood due to cloud cover obstructing the route to the destination.
- The aircraft entered a cloud layer while performing a turn to align with Runway 28.
- Spatial disorientation occurred as the pilot lost visual references while maneuvering.
- The aircraft entered an uncontrolled spiral descent from which recovery was not possible due to insufficient altitude.