Shoreham Air Disaster Families Outraged Over Pilot’s Bid to Fly Again
The families of the 11 victims killed in the tragic Shoreham air disaster have slammed pilot Andrew Hill’s attempt to get his flying licence back. They say his bid is a “profound insult” to the memory of those lost and is causing them fresh heartache.
Deadly Crash Still Haunts Families
Back in August 2015, Hill’s vintage 1950s Hawker Hunter jet burst into flames during a stunt at the packed Shoreham Airshow in West Sussex. The plane failed to complete a loop manoeuvre just 200 feet above the ground — far below the recommended 500 feet. Eleven people died and 16 were injured. The crash also wrecked eight vehicles on the nearby A27 dual-carriageway.
Now, 59-year-old Hill wants the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to reinstate his pilot’s licence. But families of those killed say he should never fly again after causing such devastation.
Victims’ Relatives Demand Respect and Justice
“You’d think, out of respect for all our loved ones lost, he would just let this one go and draw a line under it,” said Anthony Mallinson, who lost his father in the crash. “We’re trying to get on with our lives, but he’s dragging us through more stress and worry.”
Despite suffering horrific injuries himself, Hill was cleared of manslaughter charges after blaming the crash on G-force effects on his brain. An inquest later ruled that the victims had been unlawfully killed. Hill’s bid to have the inquest decision reviewed was rejected earlier this year.
CAA Decision Looms as Families Brace for Painful Christmas
The CAA is expected to decide on Hill’s licence reinstatement in the coming year. Meanwhile, families prepare for a ninth Christmas without their loved ones. Phil Grimstone, whose son Matthew died on his way to a football match, said:
“It’s bloody hard. Matthew loved Christmas. Since he’s gone, it’s cold. We’ve got grandkids who help, but it’ll never be the same.”
Hill, who lives near Sandon, Hertfordshire, has yet to comment on his flying licence appeal.
A new documentary, Fatal Flight: Shoreham, coming soon to Discovery+, tells the families’ stories and their ongoing fight for justice after the tragedy.
