What happened
On 12 June 2009, a Jodel DR1050 Ambassadeur, registration G-ATGE, was performing a return flight from the Isle of Man to Northern Ireland. As the aircraft approached a private airfield near Kilkeel, the pilot encountered rapidly deteriorating weather, characterized by mist, drizzle, and low cloud bases. Due to the worsening conditions, the pilot diverted to a nearby grass runway.
As the aircraft approached the northern threshold of the runway, the pilot initiated a tight right-hand turn to align with the landing path. During this maneuver, witnesses observed the engine spluttering, which was consistent with a reduction in power. Shortly after, the aircraft's nose dropped abruptly, and the plane dived into the ground approximately 460 meters from the runway threshold. The impact was followed by a fire that destroyed the aircraft. There were 3 fatalities among the occupants.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the wreckage and interviewed witnesses near the airfield. Investigators found that while the aircraft was heavily damaged by fire, the engine showed evidence of rotation under power at the moment of impact, suggesting power had been applied again before the crash. The investigation also noted that the engine's behavior—specifically the spluttering during power reduction—was a known characteristic of this specific engine type when RPM is lowered.
Structural analysis of the remaining components, including the wing tips, tailplane, and control cables, indicated that the aircraft's primary flight controls were intact and the tailplane was structurally complete at the time of impact. Weather analysis confirmed that low stratus and reduced visibility were present at the site.
Findings
- The pilot was performing a tight turn to align with the runway threshold.
- A significant reduction in power likely occurred during the final stages of the turn.
- The combination of reduced airspeed and decreased airflow over the wings due to the power reduction was sufficient to induce a stall.
- The aircraft's nose dropped following the stall, leading to the fatal impact.