Air Accidents Investigation Branch
On 13 May 2022 the AAIB published Special Bulletin S1/2022, describing the accident involving G-EGVA on 2 April 2022. The Special Bulletin highlighted the danger of entering cloud without the necessary qualifications and experience and referred to guidance published by the CAA on the use of lifejackets. Further investigation did not reveal additional evidence having any different effect. This report includes information already published and confirms the initial findings presented in the Special Bulletin.
Summary
G-EGVA was one of seven aircraft taking part in a club fly-out from Wellesbourne Mountford Aerodrome to Le Touquet in France. A line of highly convective cloud was forecast on the intended route in the English Channel. As G-EGVA approached the middle of the Channel, one of its two occupants, who were both pilots, reported to London Information that they were in cloud. The aircraft was operating under visual flight rules and neither of the pilots was qualified to fly in cloud. Shortly after this transmission the aircraft disappeared from radar. An extensive search of the area was coordinated by the UK and French Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centres but neither the aircraft nor its occupants were found.
It is likely control of the aircraft was lost when the aircraft entered the convective cloud.
The CAA has published an animation and podcast reinforcing the safety messages highlighted in AAIB Special Bulletin S1/2022.
Download report:
Special Bulletin
A Special Bulletin was released on 13 May 2022 concerning this accident.
Download Special Bulletin:
Special Bulletin S1/2022: Piper PA-28R-200-2, G-EGVA