What happened
On 4 September 2005, a Piper PA-28-181 Archer 2, registration G-EMAZ, was conducting a private flight from Weston Aerodrome to Cardiff. The flight, which included the pilot and one passenger, had previously flown to Ireland and was returning via the St George’s Channel.
During the flight, radar data indicated that the aircraft's track became erratic. At approximately 12:17 hrs, the aircraft began making large heading changes. By 12:19 hrs, the aircraft entered a sharp right turn, followed by a rapid descent. The radar contact was lost at 12:20 hrs, suggesting the aircraft had entered a steep spiral dive.
Following the loss of contact, a search and rescue operation was initiated involving helicopters, lifeboats, and a RAF Nimrod aircraft. Later that evening, lifeboat crews discovered wreckage, a life jacket, and the bodies of both occupants 11 nm north of Strumble Head. The impact with the sea was of such high energy that the aircraft was destroyed.
The investigation
Investigators analyzed secondary radar information from both Irish and UK sources to reconstruct the flight profile. The data showed the aircraft maintained a relatively steady course until it began the erratic maneuvers.
While bird feathers were found among the debris, investigators determined it was unlikely a bird strike caused the loss of control. The investigation also considered the pilot's medical history and the weather conditions. At the time of the accident, the area was experiencing low pressure with showers and cloud layers. The pilot had relatively limited flying experience, with approximately 150 total hours, only 45 of which were on this specific type.
Findings
- The aircraft likely inadvertently entered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) during its flight.
- While attempting to regain visual meteorological conditions (VMC), the pilot likely lost control of the aircraft.
- The flight profile, characterized by high airspeed and a rapid descent, is consistent with the effects of spatial disorientation.
- The aircraft entered a steep spiral dive that resulted in a high-speed impact with the sea, causing two fatalities.