AAIB investigation to Tekever AR5 Evolution Mk 2, G-TEKV (170123)

Temporary loss of communications link, Temporary Danger Area EG D098 over English Channel, 17 January 2023.

• From: Air Accidents Investigation Branch
• Published: 12 October 2023

• Category: Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
• Report type: Bulletin - Correspondence investigation
• Date of occurrence: 17 January 2023
• Aircraft type: Tekever AR5 Evolution Mk 2
• Location: Temporary Danger Area EG D098, over English Channel
• Registration: G-TEKV

Summary:

The unmanned aircraft encountered a loss of the communications link due to a fault in the Satcom antenna, such that it was not under the direct control of the remote pilot for a period of several minutes. In accordance with contingency procedures, the aircraft entered a holding pattern and the communications link was subsequently re-established. The remainder of the flight proceeded without incident.

As a result of this serious incident, the operator indicated that future variants of the aircraft will be equipped with a feature that automatically enables Satcom backup when fewer than two communications links are available.

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Tekever AR5 Evolution Mk 2, G-TEKV 10-23

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Glossary of abbreviations

Published 12 October 2023