What happened
On the evening of the accident, the pilot was operating a flight from Cardiff to Jersey after completing several business-related legs earlier that day. Before departing Cardiff at 1821 hrs, the pilot had noted deteriorating weather forecasts for Jersey, which included low cloud ceilings and reduced visibility due to drizzle. During the descent toward Jersey, air traffic controllers provided updates regarding declining runway visual range (RWS), noting it had dropped to approximately 650 metres.
At 1857 hrs, while seven miles from the runway, the pilot confirmed being established on the Instrument Landing System (ILS) for runway 27 and received landing clearance for G-BPCP. Although the tower controller attempted to relay an improvement in visibility shortly before touchdown, this information was not acknowledged. An eyewitness observed the aircraft on a standard approach path until it was obscured by a building. Shortly thereafter, an increase in engine power was noted, suggesting an attempt to overshoot or climb. Following an explosion and a flash of light, the aircraft type struck the roof of a house located 190 metres north of the runway threshold. The impact caused a significant fire that destroyed the structure.
The accident resulted in one fatality, involving the pilot, and left several residents of the home with injuries, including one child who sustained serious burns.
Findings
Investigation into the crash determined that the commander failed to properly execute a missed approach procedure during conditions characterized by low cloud and poor visibility at night. The pilot allowed the aircraft to descend and veer right instead of following an accurate climb-out procedure. The investigation identified spatial disorientation or potential physical incapacitation as likely factors contributing to the incorrect instrument flying technique.