What happened
The incident involved an aircraft conducting a training exercise departing from RAF Chipping Warden. During the flight, weather conditions deteriorated significantly due to heavy snowfall, which reduced visibility. The aircraft encountered icing conditions that led to a critical mechanical failure.
Both engines failed simultaneously as a result of the ice accumulation. In response to the total loss of power, the crew initiated an emergency procedure to divert to Theale Reserve Landing Ground. However, the aircraft was unable to reach the intended landing area and overshot the location. The plane subsequently crashed into a line of trees.
Despite the impact, all four members of the crew escaped the wreckage without sustaining any injuries. The pilot in command was identified as F/Sgt Raymond Peter Edwin North.
Findings
The official investigation attributed the accident to the loss of power from both engines. This failure was directly caused by the aircraft operating in icing conditions during a period of heavy snowfall.