What happened
On 30 March 2008, a Cessna Citation 500, registration VP-BGE, was operating a flight from Biggin Hill, Kent, to Pau, France, carrying two crew members and three passengers. After being cleared to taxi and subsequently take off from Runway 21 at 1332 hrs, the aircraft began its departure.
One minute after becoming airborne, the co-pilot transmitted an urgent message to air traffic control, reporting a major power problem and stating that the aircraft was turning back to the airport. At 1336 hrs, the co-pilot reported significant engine vibration and indicated that the aircraft was unable to maintain its assigned altitude.
Witnesses observed the aircraft flying at a low altitude over a built-up area approximately 2 nautical miles north-north-east of Biggin Hill Airport. Some observers noted a nose-high attitude and a bank away from residential buildings. The aircraft eventually struck the roof of a house in Romsey Close, Farnborough, before impacting the ground. The subsequent impact and fire destroyed the aircraft and a nearby garage. All five fatalities occurred on board the aircraft.
The investigation
The AAIB investigation included technical examinations of the wreckage and the engines. Because the aircraft was not equipped with flight data or cockpit voice recorders, investigators relied on air traffic control transcripts and witness accounts.
Engine disassembly was performed to check for mechanical failures. The investigation also included a search of the airfield and surrounding areas to identify any potential foreign object debris or external factors that might have contributed to the loss of power.