Merlin Helicopters
2026-06-16 · Ministry of Defence · 10778 · Official question
Question
To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what is the current flight status of the Royal Navy’s Merlin Mk.4 fleet following the crash in Sourton, Devon on 3 June 2025.
Answer
Following the loss of a Merlin Mk4 (Me4) (ZJ131) on 3 June 2026, Me4 flying was paused and an investigation was directed. A return to flying of the Me4 fleet was authorised on 10 June 2026 post analysis of the initial evidence. The safety investigation is...