Accident Overview
A training mission from RAF Fairford ended in a crash during the initial climb phase. The aircraft lost control after an inadvertent activation of the reverse thrust system, leading to a fiery impact in an open field. All six occupants were killed.
Flight Sequence
The crew was conducting a training flight. During the initial climb, the captain ordered the copilot, who was under supervision, to shut down engine number 4 and feather its propeller. For an unknown reason, the copilot instead activated the reverse thrust system. This action produced asymmetric thrust on the aircraft, disrupting its aerodynamic balance.
Loss of Control and Crash
The asymmetric thrust caused the airplane to go out of control. It subsequently crashed in flames in an open field, resulting in the deaths of all six individuals on board.
Investigation
Investigators noted that the copilot inadvertently activated the reverse thrust system, but the reason for this error remains unknown. No further details about the aircraft or mission specifics have been released.