Originally Posted by
Vortexringshark
Having an Air Commodore flying was the first mistake.
Vortexringshark - never assume is a lesson well learned in aviation. The pilot was Squadron Leader Jack Liversidge, a highly experienced pilot with a DFC, earned in the Malaya campaign, and an AFC to his name. For completeness the navigator was Flight Lieutenant R Fisher and passengers were Air Commodore Blount and Squadron Leader M W Hermon.
Even if the Air Commodore had been flying there's not much you can do when the main rotor hub and blades decide to depart the aircraft.