Police investigation into Puma helicopter crash

Following an initial investigation by the Board of Inquiry, the Convening Authority has decided that the Board of Inquiry should be suspended at this stage pending further investigation by the North Yorkshire civilian police authorities, which we will fully support.

The aircraft involved in the crash was a Puma Helicopter from 33 Squadron, RAF Benson. 12 personnel were on board, three from the RAF and nine from the Army. Three personnel were killed; Flight Lieutenant David Oxer Hanson Sale and Sergeant Phillip Anthony Burfoot, both from the Royal Air Force, and Private Sean Tait of The Royal Regiment of Scotland.