The Smart Marty Sky Dispatch
'Missing fuel cap' caused £20m RAF jet crash in fireball near North Wales caravan park
The RAF Hawk T2 erupted in a massive fireball near RAF Valley in September, with two pilots steering the stricken aircraft away from nearby buildings before ejecting safely as investigators examine a missing fuel cap as a significant part of their inquiry
A £20 million RAF Hawk T2 jet was destroyed in a fireball after a take-off from RAF Valley on Anglesey, North Wales. Ground crew did not replace the fuel cap prior to the flight, according to an investigation, which investigators say is a significant part of the inquiries.
Two pilots on the test flight managed to steer the stricken aircraft away from built-up areas before both ejected. They parachuted to safety with only minor injuries, and no confirmed casualties were reported in connection with the incident near Pencarnisiog and the Afallon Caravan Park in Llanfaelog.
The crash occurred on September 23 while the aircraft was climbing away from the runway following take-off from RAF Valley. The missing fuel cap has been identified as a factor in the ignition as the jet climbed, though investigators have not confirmed it as the sole cause.
RAF officials confirmed an investigation was underway and indicated they would not comment further while it continued. Some sources quoted in reporting suggested alternative fault lines, including a possible major engine issue, but these have not been confirmed by the RAF.
In the wake of the event, the RAF Hawk T2 fleet was grounded briefly before flight operations resumed on October 8. The incident has prompted ongoing scrutiny of maintenance standards and safety practices at the base.