What happened
The incident involved a twin-engine airplane operating out of RAF Penrhos. The aircraft had departed for a cross-country mission and was in the cruise phase during nighttime conditions. While flying, one of the engines failed. Following this mechanical issue, the pilot lost control of the airframe. The aircraft subsequently dove into the terrain and impacted the ground within a field.
The crash resulted in five fatalities, as all occupants on board were killed. The crew consisted of five military personnel from the 9th AFU, including the pilot and four other service members.
Findings
Official investigations identified engine failure as the primary cause of the accident. This mechanical malfunction led to a loss of control that the pilot was unable to recover from, resulting in the fatal impact with the ground.