What happened
On 23 April 2024, a Piper PA-28-181, registration G-BVNS, was conducting a currency check flight near Prestwick Airport. The flight, which included the pilot and a passenger, had been performing general handling exercises south of the airfield. While flying the right-hand circuit, the aircraft was performing orbits on the downwind leg to allow spacing for an Airbus A3/20.
During these orbits, the engine suffered a sudden loss of power. The passenger, acting as a Chief Flying Instructor, took control of the aircraft after noticing the engine had run down. Realising the aircraft could not reach the airfield runways, the passenger attempted to steer the glide toward a patch of open ground to the left. During the final stages of the forced landing, the aircraft's nose was raised to clear a line of trees, which caused the airspeed to drop. The aircraft struck the top of a tree in a left-banked attitude, causing it to roll and pitch down before striking the ground vertically nose-down. Both occupants sustained serious injuries.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the engine and fuel systems, finding no evidence of mechanical failure or fuel starvation. Testing of the engine, magnetos, and carburettor at an independent facility showed the engine operated normally. The investigation also reviewed meteorological data, noting that the combination of temperature and humidity presented a significant risk of carburettor icing.
Investigators also looked into the licensing status of the crew. The pilot was flying under the privileges of a Light Aircraft Pilot's Licence (LAPL) and was attempting to regain currency. The passenger's medical certificate had been suspended, meaning he could not legally act as an instructor or accompany the pilot under the 90-day rule for carrying passengers.
Findings
- The engine most likely stopped due to carburettor icing, as the air inlet valve was found in the full cold position during weather conditions highly conducive to icing.
- The aircraft struck trees during the forced landing approach, which led to a loss of control and the subsequent vertical impact with the ground.
- The pilot's attempt to clear the trees by raising the nose reduced the airspeed below the optimal glide speed.
- Confusion regarding complex licensing and revalidation regulations was noted among the crew.