Engine Fault Caused Royal Navy Helicopter Crash Killing Lieutenant Rhodri Leyshon

A Royal Navy investigation has concluded that an engine fault was the primary cause of the Merlin helicopter crash that killed Lieutenant Rhodri Leyshon in March 2023. The incident occurred during a training exercise in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 35 nautical miles south of the Lizard peninsula.

Lieutenant Leyshon, aged 31, died in the crash, while two other crew members sustained injuries. The Merlin Mk2 helicopter, attached to RNAS Culdrose's 824 Naval Air Squadron, was on a routine training mission at the time.

The comprehensive inquiry found that the engine's failure was a direct contributing factor to the helicopter ditching into the sea. This finding clarifies the circumstances surrounding the tragic loss of life and equipment, prompting questions regarding maintenance protocols and operational safety within the Royal Navy's helicopter fleet.