What happened
The incident occurred immediately following departure from Hendon Airfield. While the aircraft was in the climb phase, it experienced significant technical difficulties that led to a loss of control. The plane subsequently crashed in the area of Mill Hill. All 11 occupants were killed in the accident. Among those on board was a senior military officer who was traveling to Northern Ireland to observe exercises designed to test new methods for coordinating actions with the Army.
Findings
Investigations into the cause of the crash identified a mechanical failure as the primary factor. Specifically, part of the elevator shroud deformed, which impaired the movement of the elevator and compromised the aircraft's ability to maintain stable flight.