I am writing in response to the book review titled "Genesis of a tragedy", written by Noel Grima and published on 11 May 2025 in your newspaper, The Malta Independent on Sunday.
As the author of the book, I must point out that the review of "Forty-Six Feet Short - The Tragic End of Vulcan Bomber XM645 and the Aftermath" contains several factual inaccuracies that misrepresent both the content and intent of my work.
The article states that Captain Bob Alcock was found guilty when, in fact, Alcock was charged solely for the damage and loss of Vulcan XM645 and, following the trial, he was acquitted of all charges. Additionally, in the Żabbar accident, the structure of the Vulcan did not contribute to the accident.
Alexander was serving in an 'acting' capacity as captain and did not replace Alcock. He operated under Captain Alcock's supervision as part of his training to qualify as a captain.
Runway 24 is now Runway 23 and not 25 as stated in the article. No engines detached when the aircraft had the first impact at Luqa Airport. Alcock intended to execute a go-around, ultimately using the same runway-Runway 24.
In 1975, Runway 06-24 was longer than Runway 14-32. Referring to the latter as 'the main' runway in the article is somewhat misleading, as both runways were considered 'main'. At no point did Alcock or Alexander intend to jettison or get rid of excess fuel, as the aircraft was already engulfed in intense flames.
The standard Vulcan crew comprised two pilots, two navigators, and an aircraft electronics officer. On board XM645, there were also two chief technicians.
During the investigation, there was debate over whether these technicians should be classified as 'passengers'. However, as they were present to support the sortie, they were ultimately deemed part of the crew.
Vincenza Zammit was killed by the intense heat and burning jet fuel that splashed from the wing as it struck the ground in Sanctuary Street, and not from fuel coming from behind.
The British victims of the Rabat accident are buried at the Kalkara Capuchin Naval Cemetery, not at the Mtarfa Military Cemetery. In contrast, the victims of the Luqa accident are interred at the Mtarfa Military Cemetery. As documented in the official correspondence, the British authorities found no basis for awarding Kevin Falzon's compensation. Therefore, the reason is not obscure to me.
The article's inaccuracies risk misleading readers and creating an unjust impression of the book and its author. I trust these clarifications will help correct the record.
David Grech
Author "Forty-Six Feet Short - The Tragic End of Vulcan Bomber XM645 and the Aftermath"