Luscombe 8E Silvaire Deluxe, G-AKUI and Pacific Aerospace PAC 750X, ZK-KAY

Report name:
Luscombe 8E Silvaire Deluxe, G-AKUI and Pacific Aerospace PAC 750XL, ZK-KAY
Registration:
G-AKUI and ZK-KAY
Type:
Luscombe 8E Silvaire Deluxe and Pacific Aerospace PAC 750XL
Location:
Rectory Farm, near Rugeley, Staffordshire
Date of occurrence:
16 December 2007
Category:
General Aviation - Fixed Wing
Summary:
The pilot of ZK-KAY was flying under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) on a cross-country flight, tracking south-east, close to Blithfield Reservoir. The pilot and passenger of G-AKUI were on a local flight from their base near the reservoir. G-AKUI entered a turn to the right shortly prior to the collision, possibly to avoid a third aircraft which later radar analysis showed was near. Following the turn, with G-AKUI now on an easterly heading, the two aircraft collided. The weather was benign, with good visibility below a layer of cloud and a little haze. ZK-KAY sustained damage in the collision but landed safely at East Midlands Airport. G-AKUI sustained severe damage and was rendered incapable of flight; it fell to the ground and there was a fierce fire. Both occupants of G-AKUI died in the impact. The investigation identified factors which may account for the failure of the ‘see and avoid’ principle.