RAF Beverley Crash at Abingdon (XH117)

Flight and Emergency Declaration The aircraft departed RAF Abingdon at 1042LT bound for RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, carrying cargo, a relief crew, eight RAF police dog handlers, and eight police dogs. During climb, engine number one developed a fuel leak, prompting the crew to shut down the engine and feather its propeller. The crew declared an emergency and requested a blind approach to RAF Abingdon, with the controller alerting ground emergency services. ## Fuel Loss and Approach Shortly after, cockpit instruments indicated a large loss of fuel from the No. 2 fuel tank, the second of four tanks in the port wing. The crew deactivated the fuel cocks and boosters for the No. 2 tank while leaving them on for the No. 1 tank. As the Beverley turned onto final approach, the crew attempted to increase power from the remaining three Bristol Centaurus engines, but the No. 2 engine on the port wing failed to respond, causing the aircraft to lose speed and altitude. ## Crash and Casualties The captain attempted to land in a field but the aircraft became uncontrollable, striking high-tension cables and a group of elm trees that tore the port wing from the fuselage. On impact, the aircraft destroyed a caravan and a prefabricated house before somersaulting and crashing upside down. Eighteen occupants were killed, including three crew members, and two people on the ground. ## Investigation Findings A Board of Inquiry determined the crash was caused by loss of power from Nos. 1 and 2 engines, both mounted on the port wing. The inquiry found that a non-return valve between the No. 1 port tank and the collector box had been fitted in reverse, causing fuel starvation to the No. 2 engine. The No. 2 fuel tank had been isolated, and two smaller fuel tanks in the port wing had not been selected during the flight. The tradesman who fitted the valve and his supervisor were prosecuted, and the technician was court-martialled for negligence and reprimanded. The Board noted that some fuel was available from the two smaller tanks but they were not used, and that the captain must bear some responsibility for not using those tanks. The captain was killed in the accident, and no allegations were brought against him or any of his crew.