AAIB investigation to Westland Scout AH1, G-BWHU
Loss of control immediately after takeoff during a turn manoeuvre close to the ground, Turweston Aerodrome, Buckinghamshire, 24 April 2026
The helicopter was lifting off having been refuelled at Turweston Aerodrome. As the pilot commenced a pedal turn to the left, the helicopter rapidly rotated to the right. The pilot took immediate action to counter the rotation but with no effect. The helicopter landed heavily and its main rotors struck the tail boom causing substantial damage to the tail rotor drive train. The exact cause of the loss of control could not be determined.
Download the report:
Download glossary of abbreviations:
Updates to this page
Published 9 July 2026