What happened
On 1 August 1999, a P84 Jet Provost T MK4, registration G-TOMG, was conducting a series of pleasure flights near Gloucester Staverton Airport. The flight, which was part of a weekend of private trips, was carrying a pilot and one passenger. After departing from Runway 09, the aircraft climbed and headed southwest across the Severn Estuary.
Witnesses observed the aircraft flying at an extremely low altitude, approximately 50 feet, along the River Severn. The aircraft was seen performing a climbing turn to the right over rising ground before turning back toward the river. Shortly after, the aircraft entered a sharp left turn. During this maneuver, observers noted the aircraft was in a steep bank and the nose began to drop, causing the plane to descend rapidly toward the ground.
The aircraft struck a field containing wheat with its left wingtip, which triggered a rapid yaw. The impact caused the aircraft to slide approximately 40 yards, during which time a significant fire erupted, fueled by spilled aviation fuel and the surrounding crop. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained 2 fatal injuries.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the wreckage and determined that the aircraft was structurally intact and in a clean configuration, with landing gear, flaps, and airbrakes all retracted prior to impact. The engine was found to have been running at the time of the crash, and there was no evidence of any mechanical failure or bird strike. The investigation also noted that the ejection seats were present, but there was no evidence that an attempt to eject had been made by either occupant.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's experience, noting that while he had flown the type since 1998, he had limited experience in low-level operations. The investigation also looked into the operational requirements of the flight, which was conducted under a Permit to Fly.
Findings
- The aircraft was flying at a very low altitude, which left almost no margin for error.
- The aircraft was traveling at approximately 138 kt at the time of impact, which is significantly lower than the normal cruise speed of 220 to 240 kt.
- The aircraft entered a steep left-hand turn at low altitude, during which the nose dropped, leading to the fatal descent.
- There was no evidence of any mechanical malfunction or control restrictions that would have prevented a recovery.
- There was no attempt to use the ejection seats before the impact.