FATAL ACCIDENT AT SILVERSTONE WORLD AEROBATIC CHAMPIONSHIP

An investigation has been launched by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) following the fatal incident yesterday (Saturday 22 August 2009) at the World Aerobatic Championships, which is being held in the skies above Silverstone Circuit.

Vicki Cruse, a 40-year-old pilot from California, America, was in the Edge E40 aircraft which came down onto the circuit. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

An official statement from the World Aerobatic Championships organisers last night read: “American aviator Vicki Cruse has been named as the pilot killed at the World Aerobatic Championships being held at Silverstone today (Saturday 22nd August).

“Cruse was the sole occupant of the aircraft and the incident did not involve any other persons.

The incident is under investigation and more details will be released as soon as available.”

 It has not yet been decided whether the World Aerobatic Championships, which is due to see the finale held on the Saturday of the British Touring Car Championship weekend, will continue.

BRDC President Damon Hill commented: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the tragic accident at Silverstone in the World Aerobatic Championship yesterday and the Club sends its sincere condolences to Vicki Cruse’s family.”