What happened
On the morning of 19 April 1968, an Armstrong Whitworth Seahawk departed from Ballykelly, Northern Ireland, to participate in an anti-submarine training mission. The objective of the flight was to locate a Royal Navy submarine positioned within the operational area.
During the mission, the aircraft operated in conditions characterized by heavy sea mist. At approximately 10:30, the aircraft was identified south of the Mull of the Kintyre. As the aircraft ascended through the dense fog, it collided with rising terrain located near Garvalt cottage. The impact resulted in 11 fatalities, with all crew members on board dying instantly.
Findings
- The presence of thick sea mist significantly reduced visibility during the flight phase.
- The aircraft struck elevated ground while climbing through low-visibility conditions.