Image: AAIB headquarters.
At 1131 hrs on 17 July 2023, the pilot took off in G-TOTN from Ronaldsway Airport, Isle of Man. The aircraft was later observed to enter a turn to the left before the wings levelled and the aircraft descended to strike the cliff at Bradda Head. The pilot did not survive.
The investigation found no evidence of any technical faults that would have prevented the pilot from manoeuvring to avoid the cliff, and it is likely that the accident was a deliberate act. The pilot had been suffering from difficulties with sleep for a number of months and with anxiety in the weeks preceding the flight.
Media enquiries call: 01932 440015 or 0300 777 7878.