AAIB Report: Piper PA-28-181, G-BVNS, on 23 April 2024
Loss of engine power and forced landing, 1.5 miles from Prestwick Airport, 23 April 2024
CAA icing risk chart from SSL 14
While the aircraft was on a right base leg for an approach to Runway 30 at Prestwick Airport, ATC lost visual and radio contact. The aircraft had suffered a power loss and established a glide descent. The aircraft hit a tree during the latter stages of the forced landing, and subsequently struck the ground vertically nose-down. Both of those on board sustained serious injuries.
The report considers carburettor icing and the use of carburettor heat, both of which are the subject of a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Safety Sense Leaflet. It also highlights licensing, specifically revalidation, and the CAA’s General Aviation Pilot Licensing and Training Simplification work.