Single-engine aircraft crash due to loss of control during hunting activity (G-AAIU)

What happened

The incident involved a single-engine aircraft operating on a private flight. The airplane departed from Cheltenham with two individuals aboard. During the flight phase, the pilot engaged in hunting activity by shooting ducks directly from the cockpit. This action led to a loss of control over the aircraft's flight path. Consequently, the plane crashed into a nearby field and was destroyed upon impact. Both occupants sustained injuries as a result of the accident.

Findings

The primary factor contributing to the crash was the pilot's decision to perform non-essential activities that distracted from flying duties. Specifically, shooting game from the cockpit compromised the pilot's ability to maintain proper control of the aircraft, leading directly to the loss of control and subsequent impact with the ground.