Shoreham Air Disaster: Criminal Investigation Almost Complete

The criminal investigation into the pilot involved in the Shoreham air disaster is "95% complete", police have said.

Eleven men were killed when a vintage Hawker Hunter jet crashed into the A27 during a stunt at the Shoreham Airshow two years ago.

Pilot Andrew Hill, 53, is being investigated for possible manslaughter by gross negligence and he has been questioned voluntarily under caution by police.

Detective Superintendent Adam Hibbert of Sussex Police gave an update on the force's inquiry during a pre-inquest review hearing into the crash.

He said:

"The police investigation is now some 95% complete and following our recent meeting with the Crown Prosecution Service, an initial file is now being drawn up and I can confirm that process is under way.

"We continue to talk with the families and I'm extremely grateful for their continued support and patience in what continues to be upsetting circumstances for them all."

West Sussex coroner Penelope Schofield said the inquest may have to be suspended pending the outcome of any criminal prosecution, but assured the families present at the hearing that the police investigation is being monitored.

Gerard Forlin QC, speaking on behalf of all the families of the victims after the hearing, said:

"The families are understandably very disappointed. This matter took place over 22 months ago. However what they want is a full, frank, thorough and fearless investigation into this incident, and of course, for that, they will wait as patiently as they can."

A final report from the Air Accidents Investigation Branch published in March found Mr Hill, from Sandon, Hertfordshire, was flying too slow and too low during the loop manoeuvre.

Investigators said the speed the plane entered the manoeuvre was too low and it failed to use maximum thrust.

Measures taken to mitigate the effects of an aircraft crashing outside the airshow's boundary were "ineffective" and contributed to the severity of the crash toll, they added.

The AAIB made a total of 32 safety recommendations for the Civil Aviation Authority, including 10 in the final report. The CAA said it would act on them "as a priority".

Shoreham Airshow organisers have said it is unlikely they will stage "the same or similar style event" in the future.