What happened
On 24 December 1998, a Jet Provost T Mk 5A, registration G-BWBS, was conducting a private flight near Bradwellon-Sea, Essex. After departing North Weald aerodrome, the pilot proceeded to an area near the coast to perform aerobatic manoeuvres. Witnesses observed the aircraft performing loops and rolls before the pilot attempted a near-vertical manoeuvre, described as a wingover or stall-turn.
During this final manoeuvre, the aircraft pitched up vertically, lost its kinetic energy, and entered an incipient spin that rapidly developed into a full right-hand spin. The aircraft descended through several turns, reaching a high vertical speed before impacting the sea. Although the pilot successfully ejected, the parachute deposited him into the water at a time when the sea temperature was only 5°C. Despite the successful operation of the escape system, the pilot succumbed to the elements.
The investigation
Investigators examined the wreckage recovered from the mudflats and analysed radar data from Debden. Radar tracks confirmed the aircraft's path along the coast and documented the vertical manoeuvres prior to the final descent. The investigation established that the aircraft's engine was running at a relatively high power level at the moment of impact, as evidenced by damage to the compressor casing.
The examination of the wreckage showed the airframe was structurally intact before hitting the water, with all damage being consistent with the high-velocity impact. The left ejection seat was found to have functioned correctly, and the proximity of the canopy to the wreckage indicated the escape sequence was initiated just before impact. The investigation also noted that the pilot was not wearing a life jacket, which significantly impacted his ability to survive the cold water immersion.