What happened
On 26 October 2005, a PZL-Koliber 160A, registration G-BZAJ, departed North Weald Aerodrome for a planned flight to Bembridge. The route was intended to pass east of the Mayfield and Goodwood VORs. At the start of the flight, weather conditions were favorable, with the pilot maintaining an altitude of 1,900 ft amsl.
As the aircraft progressed east of Gatwick, the pilot encountered light turbulence and scattered cloud, prompting a descent to 1,700 ft amsl. After passing the Mayfield VOR, the pilot noted a lowering cloud base and further reduced the altitude to 1,200 ft amsl. During this period, visibility began to diminish, and the pilot was unable to identify a planned geographical reference point, leading to disorientation and the realization that the aircraft was lost.
In an attempt to return to better weather, the pilot initiated a left turn toward Mayfield. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck the ground. The impact caused extensive damage to the aircraft, resulting in the landing gear detaching and the canopy opening. The pilot sustained minor injuries, including cuts to the face and arms, and was briefly knocked unconscious during the collision.
The investigation
Investigators examined weather reports and forecasts for the period. The UK Low Level Forecast and the Southampton TAF both indicated the potential for low cloud bases and reduced visibility. Specifically, the Southampton TAF had predicted a temporary period of visibility as low as 4,000 m in rain or drizzle with cloud broken at 400 ft agl.
An aftercast from the Met Office confirmed that a warm front moving from the southwest had brought moistening air over Sussex, resulting in visibility between 6 and 9 km and low cloud bases. The investigation also reviewed the pilot's actions and the decision-making process regarding the deteriorating conditions.