I am aware that Sqn Ldr Burke has made various allegations concerning both his non-selection as a Board of Inquiry member and the fact that his advice as an expert witness was not sought by the Board. These notes are intended to provide clarification.

  Throughout the period of the Inquiry, the Board aimed to gather best evidence. It was decided that Sqn Ldr Morgan, the Chinook Flight Commander on the Chinook Operational Conversion Unit, was the most appropriate officer to provide expert advice on operational matters concerning the Chinook MkII. As a highly experienced Qualified Helicopter Instructor and project officer for the conversion of aircrew to the Chinook MkII, Sqn Ldr Morgan had considerable in-depth knowledge of not only the technical aspects of the new aircraft but also of current operation procedures. In contrast, Sqn Ldr Burke was employed as the Chinook maintenance test pilot, responsible for conducting post-maintenance check flying of aircraft. As such, his flying was conducted in accordance with limited and pre-determined flight test schedules and he therefore lacked the operational currency to provide relevant evidence to the Inquiry, or indeed to be considered a potential Board member by HQ 1 Gp. Clearly, had the Board required expert advice on maintenance test flying matters, then Sqn Ldr Burke would have been the obvious choice.

  I am not aware of any reason why Sqn Ldr Burke should not have spoken to members of the Board on an informal basis during the course of the Inquiry. Several theories were put forward in this way and in each case were fully considered by the Board. Indeed, on one occasion I recall discussing the possibility of a DASH runaway with Sqn Ldr Burke during lunch in the Officers' Mess. Furthermore, I have known Sqn Ldr Burke for many years and I know he is not the sort of character to remain silent if he believes he has important information to impart—regardless of the consequences.

  The choice of Sqn Ldr Gilday as the aircrew member of the Board was made by the HQ 1 Gp staffs. However, it proved to be an excellent choice. Sqn Ldr Gilday is an officer of great integrity with a wide experience of helicopter operations, and he displayed tenacity and thoroughness in equal measure throughout the period of this Inquiry.

Gp Capt Pulford

President of the RAF BOI into the Mull of Kintyre Chinook acccident.

7 November 2001