Incident Overview
On 22 December 1999, Korean Air Cargo Flight 8509, a Boeing 747-2B5F registered HL7451, crashed shortly after takeoff from London Stansted Airport. The aircraft was operating the final leg of its route from South Korea to Milan Malpensa Airport, Italy. The crash occurred in Hatfield Forest near the village of Great Hallingbury, close to but clear of nearby houses.
Crew and Aircraft
The aircraft was a Boeing 747-2B5F, carrying no passengers. All four crew members on board were killed in the accident. The flight was a cargo service, and the aircraft was fully loaded.
Accident Sequence
Flight 8509 departed from London Stansted Airport and began its climb. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft experienced a loss of control and descended into Hatfield Forest. The wreckage was located near Great Hallingbury. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and a subsequent fire.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the accident was caused by a combination of instrument malfunction and pilot error. The specific instrument malfunction involved the aircraft's attitude indicator, which provided incorrect pitch information. The pilots' response to the faulty instrument led to a loss of control. No other factors were identified.
Aftermath
The crash site was secured, and an investigation was conducted by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB). The aircraft was destroyed, and the crew's remains were recovered. Korean Air and Boeing cooperated with the investigation.