What happened
The incident occurred during the initial climb phase following departure from RAF Merryfield. Shortly after liftoff, the captain initiated a left-hand turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck the slope of Castle Hill, which is located approximately four miles from the airport. The impact forces destroyed the airframe, and all 27 occupants were killed in the crash. The flight crew consisted of five military personnel, including the pilot, copilot, navigator, flight engineer, and wireless operator. The remaining passengers included various officers and sergeants.
Findings
Official investigations determined that the primary cause of the accident was the execution of the first post-takeoff turn at an altitude significantly lower than required. The captain completed the maneuver at approximately 800 feet, whereas departure procedures mandated a minimum altitude of 1,500 feet for such turns. Additionally, poor weather conditions resulting in low visibility were identified as a contributory factor to the loss of situational awareness and subsequent collision with terrain.