AAIB publishes report following July incident
A report by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch into a fatal plane crash in the south of the Island earlier this year has found the incident is likely to have been deliberate.
The investigation has found no evidence of any technical faults that would have caused the collision at Bradda Head on 17 July.
The AAIB's findings show the 64-year-old pilot arrived at Ronaldsway on the morning of the crash, before taking off from the airport at 11.30am.
Data and witnesses report the Cessna aircraft followed a relatively constant rate of descent before striking the cliff face shortly before midday.
CCTV in Port Erin also suggested the flight was under control before the collision.
Investigations revealed the pilot had been suffering from sleep issues and anxiety ahead of the incident, and had been prescribed medication to alleviate the symptoms.
The report states he had not declared these difficulties to his aeromedical examiner, and several phone calls were made during the flight indicating the pilot did not intend to return from the flight.
Examination of the wreckage confirmed there was no evidence of pre-impact failure in the flying control cables, all major components were present, the engine contained oil and there was a significant amount of fuel present.
As a result, the AAIB concludes it is likely the accident was a deliberate act.
The Coroner of Inquests opened and adjourned proceedings into the death of 64-year-old Karl Bettoney following the incident.
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