What happened
On 6 June 2001, a Beechcraft Baron B58, registration N523B, departed Isle of Man Airport for Gloucester Airport. The flight was a private operation with the pilot alone on board. During the departure, the pilot was operating under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) in conditions characterized by heavy rain and low cloud ceilings.
Shortly after takeoff, witnesses observed the aircraft climb into the clouds and noted a reduction in engine noise. While the takeoff appeared normal, the aircraft's radar signature began to drift north of its intended track. At 1321 hrs, the pilot contacted Air Traffic Control to report a problem with the aircraft's compass. This was the final communication received from the aircraft.
Following this report, radar controllers observed the aircraft performing a right turn that eventually brought it back toward the airfield. An eyewitness on a nearby cliff reported seeing lights low to the water that appeared to pitch into the sea. The aircraft disappeared from radar at approximately 1321:35 hrs. A subsequent search by surface vessels and divers recovered only floating debris and a main landing gear wheel, suggesting a high-speed impact with the water.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the aircraft's flight path, the meteorological conditions, and the mechanical history of the aircraft. Investigators noted that the aircraft was relatively new, having been manufactured in February 2000.
Records indicated that a Raytheon Safety Communique had been issued shortly before the accident, warning of potential flap drive cable failures in certain aircraft models. While the owner was aware of this notice, it was unclear if the specific cables on N5203B were affected. However, the investigation found that the damage to the recovered wreckage was too severe to have been caused by a controlled ditching, indicating a high-speed impact.
Findings
- The aircraft struck the sea at a high speed and steep angle.
- The pilot reported a compass malfunction prior to the loss of contact.
- The transponder was either malfunctioning or not correctly set, as the controller lost the aircraft's squawk code.
- Heavy rain and low visibility were present at the time of the accident.
- There was insufficient evidence to determine the definitive cause of the crash due to the lack of significant wreckage.