Air accident investigators were faced with a difficult task following the tragedy.

A team of investigators from the Department of Transport scoured the crash site for clues for several days after the tragedy.

The lack of remains from the burnt-out helicopter and few obvious clues to the cause of the crash hampered the post crash probe.

Eye-witnesses reported seeing the helicopter turn sharply towards Rochester Airport before dropping to the ground.

A report published the following year failed to positively identify the cause of the crash.

Judges at London’s High Court later decided on mechanical failure as the most likely cause. Pilot Graham Budden, the court said, was not to blame.