The delays in the investigation of the tragic Leicester City helicopter crash have been described as a “national disgrace,” and a shame to the football world, clubs and all national teams, according to statements made to a coroner. Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the club chairman, and four others lost their lives in the accident outside the King Power Stadium on October 27, 2018. The final report by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) was published in September of the following year. However, the inquest is not anticipated to commence until early 2025.
During a pre-inquest review, Philip Shepherd, representing Mr. Vichai’s family, expressed that the prolonged duration of the AAIB’s investigation has compounded the suffering of the relatives. He̳ mentioned the ongoing anguish endured by those affected and emphasized the necessity for closure through the completion of the investigation and the subsequent inquest. Additionally, he criticized the extensive timeframe, labeling it a “national disgrace.”
The victims of the crash included the helicopter’s pilots, Eric Swaffer and Izabela Roza Lechowicz, as well as two members of Mr. Vichai’s staff – Nusara Suknamai and Kaveporn Punpare.
Tributes were paid outside the stadium following the crash, and the subsequent proceedings have been characterized by significant delays. Mr. Shepherd reiterated the global interest in the incident and criticized the protracted investigation process, asserting that both the public and the families of the victims deserve transparency regarding the reasons for the delay.
However, he clarified that the families do not attribute blame to the inquest process itself for the prolonged wait. David Manknell, representing the AAIB, expressed regret over the time taken for the completion of the reports but stressed the importance of following proper procedures to ensure accuracy.
The AAIB’s final report attributed the crash to a seized tail rotor bearing, which led to a sequence of mechanical failures resulting in the inevitable crash. It concluded that there was little the pilot, Mr. Swaffer, could have done to prevent it.
The hearing also saw the involvement of various stakeholders, including the helicopter’s manufacturer, Leonardo, and the football club, who provided input on the evidence and the scope of the forthcoming inquiry. The inquest is anticipated to last two to three weeks and will involve a jury.
Finally, the coroner extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic incident.
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