Survivors and the families of the victims of one of Britain’s worst air disasters are gathering for a service to remember the 47 people who died in the crash on the embankment of the M1 in Leicestershire on January 8, 1989.
British Midland flight 92, carrying 126 people from Heathrow to Belfast, ploughed into the edge of the motorway after one of its engine’s caught fire. It had been trying to reach East Midlands Airport for a safe landing. It came down just a few feet from the runway.
A 30th anniversary service was being held today at St Andrew’s Church in Kegworth, close to the crash site. Rescue workers who were first at the scene are also expected to attend.
Most of the people on board were from Northern Ireland and some are still suffering from the injuries they sustained in the crash.
The service, which has been organised by Kegworth Parish Council, will be followed by a walk to Kegworth Cemetery where wreaths will be laid.
The crash happened after a broken fan blade in the left engine caused a pounding noise, vibration and smoke, but pilot captain Kevin Hunt and co-pilot David McClelland accidentally shut down the right engine, leaving the plane without power.
