Investigation Links Light Aircraft Near-Collision to ‘Ineffective Equipment’ and ‘Situational Awareness’

An investigation concluded that two light aircraft nearly collided due to “ineffective” equipment and insufficient “situational awareness.” This event, which occurred on 4 May close to Peterborough, involved a Cessna 152 and a C42 plane. The pilot operating the first aircraft observed another plane entering its airspace and executed a turn to prevent a collision. The UK Airprox Board classified the collision risk as Category B, representing the second highest level of potential risk. A student flyer was aboard the second aircraft, engaged in practicing handling and steep turns prior to descending towards the airfield. The pilot stated they did not perceive the approaching plane until it was “almost right in front of them.” They further commented that the incident “all happened very quickly,” asserting they had “been looking out to the best of their ability.” Investigators were informed by the pilot of the first aircraft that the other plane “seemed very close and had been close enough to read its registration.” After spotting the plane, the pilot initiated a right turn to enhance separation, then continued their flight path to allow the other aircraft to pass behind them. Investigators stated that both pilots, who had departed from Conington Airfield, “shared an equal responsibility” for avoiding a collision, though the pilot of the second aircraft ideally should have yielded to the first. It was determined that the first aircraft could not detect the second because its transponder was switched off. The pilot of the second aircraft was unable to detect the first plane due to an absence of electronic equipment. Further updates on Peterborough news are available via BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. This content is subject to Copyright 2024 BBC, with all rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external sites and provides information regarding its approach to external linking.