This information, passed to me by a reliable source since my last post, may explain the G-BTFY registration aspect:
The helicopter which crashed was built using components from G-BTFY and G-JWLS which was damaged in a well-publicised taxying accident at Duxford. JWLS was struck by the Carolyn Grace two-seat Spitfire ML 407.
The completed helicopter, which used the G-BTFY shell, was registered as G-BTFY.
I won't repeat here what I've been told was apparently seen by eye-witnesses to the accident. I say only that nothing I've posted above should lead anyone to jump to the conclusion that mechanical failure played any part in this tragic accident.
The AAIB will no doubt carry out their investigation in the exemplary way they carry out all investigations in my experience, and we'll then have the explanation.
My condolences to the family and friends of the two men who died.
Tudor Owen
Last edited by Flying Lawyer; 23rd Jan 2003 at 21:30.