IT IS "frustrating" not to know the reason for a biplane crash which killed two men, the aircraft's owners say.

As reported, builder Peter Stacey, 67 and from Shaftesbury, and Blandford man Christopher Nicholls, 64, were killed in August 2017 when the Tiger Moth plane they were flying crashed into a crop field next to the Compton Abbas Airfield.

Mr Stacey was the front seat passenger. His family, who had purchased the ‘air experience’ flight as a gift, were at the airfield when the tragedy unfolded.

Mr Nicholls had 47 years of experience as a pilot. He was working DH Heritage Limited at the time of the accident.

Both men died when the aircraft crashed and burst into flames after unexpectedly pitching down while returning to the airfield. Mr Nicholls had reported possible engine problems.

An extensive Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) probe, which was unable to identify any defects with the Tiger Moth, also concluded there was no evidence suggesting the cause of the aircraft’s final manoeuvre.

Conclusions of accidental death were agreed unanimously by the jury following a four-day inquest into the death of the two men.

Clive Hughes, director of DH Heritage Flights, yesterday said: "The loss of two well-loved and respected people is a tragedy, and never knowing what happened is frustrating for everyone.

"DH Heritage Flights Limited who owned and operated the Tiger Moth offer their heartfelt condolences to the relatives of the deceased."