 As a result, the Vulcan was short of the runway and the initial contact with the ground removed the aircraft's undercarriage.The pilot attempted to regain control but was unable to and he and the co-pilot both ejected.The low level made it impossible for Squadron Leader Stroud (Howard's regular co-pilot who was in the aircraft's radar navigator's seat), Squadron Leader Eames, Squadron Leader Gamble, and Frederick Bassett to exit the aircraft and they were killed.