What happened
On 12 November 2001, a Cessna 152, registration G-BTGW, was conducting a navigation training exercise involving an instructor and a student. The flight began with a leg to Lydd Airfield, which was completed without incident. During the subsequent leg toward Shoreham, the instructor noted a lowering cloud base and diverted toward the coast, eventually landing at Shoreham.
While preparing for the final leg to Staple and following a refueling stop, the instructor decided to fly VFR along the coast toward Hastings. During this portion of the flight, the instructor took control of the aircraft to instruct the student on low-level navigation techniques. While navigating north-west toward the Detling VOR and using the M20 motorway as a visual reference, the aircraft entered hill fog.
Upon realizing the visibility had dropped, the instructor applied full power and attempted an instrument-based climb. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck a tree, resulting in a loud impact and a reduction in engine power. The instructor subsequently performed a forced landing in a nearby field. Although the touchdown was smooth, the aircraft continued moving until it struck a perimeter fence. Both occupants of the aircraft escaped without injury, though the aircraft sustained substantial damage.
The investigation
Investigators examined the flight path and the environmental conditions at the time of the accident. The investigation established that the aircraft had been flying at approximately 650 feet amsl, while the highest ground in the immediate vicinity was 673 feet amsl. The impact with the tree primarily affected the main landing gear, though foliage was also found on the engine cowling.
Findings
- The aircraft encountered hill fog that was not specifically included in the weather forecast.
- The instructor was attempting to provide instruction on navigation while simultaneously managing the aircraft and navigating.
- The instructor's attention was divided due to the dual demands of instruction and flight management.
- The instructor acknowledged an error in judgment regarding the decision to continue the exercise despite the deteriorating weather conditions.