This awful tragedy comes as a multiple blow.
First and foremost is the tragic loss of life for which I offer my prayers and sincere condolences to those who are left behind.
Then there is the severe blow this has caused to the RAF. A great and noble service which my father served in with great pride during WW2. A connection I too am always proud to acknowledge.
Then there is the loss of a great aircraft, with a strong and often forgotten linage. I have always had a strong love of the Comet and it's descendents since flying as a child in G-APDF, which became the RAE's XV814, and had so much input into the development of the mighty Nimrod.
Yet, even with this, my sense of loss can go no where near that experienced by the families, loved ones and colleagues of those who are gone. May they Rest In Peace.