Accident Overview
At approximately 1407 UTC on 22 August 2023, a Spitfire MK 26B, registered G-CLHJ, struck the ground during a test flight near Enstone, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom. The aircraft was destroyed and the pilot did not survive.
Investigation
The United Kingdom Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) led the investigation into the accident. The Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) of New Zealand opened an inquiry for administrative purposes to assist as an Accredited Representative under ICAO Annex 13 provisions. In March 2026, with confirmation that the assistance was no longer required, the Commission concluded its inquiry.
Aircraft and Flight
The aircraft involved was a Spitfire MK 26B, registration G-CLHJ. The flight was described as a test flight. No further details about the aircraft’s performance, maintenance history, or pilot experience have been released by the investigation authorities.