What happened
On 2 April 2022, a Piper PA-28R-200-2, registration G-EGVA, was participating in a flying club fly-out from Wellesbourne Mountford Aerodrome to Le Touquet, France. The flight, consisting of one pilot and one passenger, was operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). During the flight, the aircraft passed Shoreham, with video evidence showing the crew at 5,000 ft and observing cumulus cloud ahead.
At approximately 0916 hrs, the crew contacted London Information to report that they were inside cloud. Shortly thereafter, radar data indicated the aircraft began a rapid descent. The aircraft was last seen on radar at 0/916:31 hrs, 20 nm west of Le Touquet, descending at a rate of nearly 10,000 fpm. Despite extensive search efforts by UK and French authorities, neither the aircraft nor the two missing occupants were located. Subsequently, various items, including a seat and flight documents, were found washed up on the French coastline.
The investigation
The AAIB examined radar recordings, satellite imagery, and weather forecasts. Radar analysis revealed that prior to the final descent, the aircraft had fluctuated in altitude between 3,000 ft and 7,000 ft, potentially in an attempt to avoid the weather. Meteorological data confirmed a highly active convective area in the English Channel, with forecasts predicting thunderstorms, heavy rain, and severe turbulence.
Investigators also reviewed video footage posted by the passenger, which showed the aircraft's instruments and the approaching cloud. The investigation noted that while other VFR aircraft in the fly-out group successfully navigated around the weather, G-EGVA entered the cloud mass. The examination of a recovered seat suggested the airframe had been subjected to extreme forces upon impact.
Findings
- The aircraft entered a highly active area of convective cloud that had been forecast for the route.
- The loss of control occurred after the aircraft entered the cloud.
- Neither occupant held an instrument rating or qualification for flight in Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC).
- Severe turbulence and icing, which were forecast for the area, may have contributed to the departure from controlled flight.
- The high rate of descent recorded on radar suggests the aircraft likely struck the water with significant force.