RAF

Investigation Begins Into Illegal Vulcan Barrell Roll

The Vulcan to the Sky Trust has confirmed it is cooperating with a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) investigation into allegations the Vulcan XH558 performed an illegal aerobatic manoeuvre during one of its final flights.

Footage has emerged which appears to show the aircraft undertaking a barrel roll while flying over Grantham. It was captured by an amateur enthusiast last month.

A number of restrictions were put in place by the CAA following the Shoreham Air Crash in August. The new rules significantly restrict vintage jet aircraft and ban ‘high energy’ aerobatics.

The Vulcan’s own airworthiness certificate already prohibited it from performing aerobatics due to its age and size.

The aircraft is maintained and was operated by the Vulcan to the Sky Trust, which told Forces TV:

“We can confirm that we are co-operating with the CAA to investigate allegations that one of our crews performed an aerobatic manoeuvre that is not allowed by our Permit to Fly. It would be inappropriate to comment further until key facts are established”.

The former nuclear bomber has flown her final flight after engineering support was withdrawn by Rolls Royce.

She will now become an educational exhibition piece at the Robin Hood Airport near Doncaster.