What happened
On 17 January 2012, a Thruster T600N 450, registration G-CBIO, was involved in an accident near Compton Abbas Airfield in Dorset. During the descent into the airfield, the pilot activated the aircraft's electrical carburettor heat system.
The investigation
Following the initial report, the British Microlight Aircraft Association (BMAA) and the Light Aircraft Association (LAA) provided additional information regarding the electrical carburettor heat system installed on G-CBIO. The associations clarified that such systems are engineered to be active throughout the entire flight to prevent the formation of ice within the carburettor, rather than acting as a method to melt existing ice. This differs from traditional heated air intake systems, which typically require manual intervention by the pilot during specific flight phases, such as when reducing power for landing.
Furthermore, the BMAA and LAA noted that the aircraft owner holds the primary responsibility for ensuring all modifications meet the required standards. The investigation also addressed airworthiness regulations, noting that BCAR Section S does not mandate specific requirements for engine reliability or induction system icing protection.