What happened
On 6 December 2003, a Socata TBM 700B, registration N30LT, was conducting a private flight from Brussels to Oxford (Kidlington) Airport. The aircraft, carrying one pilot and two passengers, was on a visual straight-in approach to Runway 01. As the aircraft crossed the airfield boundary, witnesses observed it begin a sudden and rapid roll to the left.
Eyewitness accounts varied regarding the exact sequence of the maneuver, but several observers noted the aircraft banking heavily to the left and, in some instances, appearing to pitch up or enter a nose-low attitude. Shortly after the roll began, the aircraft struck the ground approximately 180 metres west of the runway threshold. The impact was severe, destroying the aircraft and resulting in three fatalities (the pilot and both passengers).
The investigation
The AAIB investigation focused on identifying any technical or operational cause for the sudden loss of control. Investigators examined the wreckage, the engine, the propeller, and the flight control systems. A thorough check of the control cables, rods, and servos revealed no evidence of mechanical failure, control restrictions, or trim runaway. The autopilot and de-icing systems were also found to be fully functional.
Examination of the Pratt & Whitney PT6A-64 engine and the propeller indicated that the engine was operating within normal limits and was at a low power setting at the time of impact. While the aircraft was found to be out of trim for a typical 80 kt approach speed—requiring the pilot to apply significant aft force to the control wheel—this was not considered a primary cause of the roll. The investigation also considered several operational factors, including potential pilot distraction, a late go-around attempt, or a wing stall.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced an uncontrolled roll to the left during the final stages of the approach.
- No technical malfunction was identified that could explain the sudden roll or loss of control.
- The aircraft was likely flying at a speed lower than the target approach speed, which could have led to a stall.
- There was no evidence of engine failure, fuel imbalance, or icing contributing to the accident.
- The lack of a flight data recorder or cockpit voice recorder prevented a definitive determination of the exact sequence of events or the pilot's actions.