What happened
On 3 February 2007, a Piper PA-28-140 Cherokee, registration G-BBBK, was performing a private flight from Exeter to Blackpool. The flight was arranged following a proposal from a flying instructor to fly the aircraft for the cost of fuel, accompanied by an experienced pilot.
After departing Exeter, the aircraft climbed through cloud and maintained VFR conditions while flying over clear weather. However, as the aircraft approached Blackpool, it encountered deteriorating conditions, including low cloud and limited visibility. During the return leg, the crew attempted to descend through the cloud layer over the sea, likely in an effort to locate the airfield visually.
At approximately 1712 hrs, the aircraft reported being at 200 feet. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft disappeared from radar. The wreckage was later discovered in shallow water near Blackpool Beach. The impact resulted in two fatalities, involving both the pilot and the accompanying passenger.
The investigation
The AAIB examined the wreckage and recovered data from air traffic control communications and radar tracks. The investigation established that the aircraft was approximately 67 kg over its maximum takeoff weight at departure. While the engine was found to be functional and likely operating at the time of impact, the aircraft lacked the necessary navigational equipment to fly in the prevailing conditions.
Investigators also reviewed the pilot's experience and the weather forecasts. It was noted that the pilot had not flown for three months and was not qualified to fly in the Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) that had developed. Furthermore, the altimeter subscale was found to have been set incorrectly, which may have caused the crew to believe they were at a higher altitude than they actually were.
Findings
- The pilot was flying in weather conditions that were not suitable for his experience or license privileges.
- The aircraft was operating in cloud without the required instrument rating or equipment.
- The aircraft was overweight at the time of departure.
- The pilot failed to check updated weather information at Exeter, which would have revealed the deteriorating conditions at Blackpool.
- An incorrect altimeter setting likely led to the aircraft being much closer to the sea surface than the crew realized.