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Old 4th Dec 2012, 07:39
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Lightning Mate
 
Join Date: Apr 2009
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It was test pilot George Aird and a Lightning F1. He ejected at an incredibly low altitude in Hatfield, Hertfordshire 13th September 1962.

He was on finals for an emergency landing at Hatfield, following a double reheat fire warning which occurred about 15 miles North East of Hatfield.

George was making a normal powered approach, unfortunately he had to position for runway 06 as the wind was from the northeast. His approach to Hatfield was from the NE. The runway was short by Service standards so the manually operated barrier had been erected at the northeast end of 06. At about 10 seconds from touchdown, at about 100 ft, the aircraft suddenly pitched nose up and, since there was no response to the controls, he ejected.

The aircraft crashed on the airfield, broke up and caught fire.

I have photos of the wreckage if you wish.
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