Still open.  It may be difficult to accept that such a 'wonderful' aviation legend ended its existence with a straight forward structural failure. That it vanished compounds the mystery. To have investigators "warned off", makes the mystery more intriguing. The lingering question hinges on the existence of a 10:10 (34) radio message  (a local vs GMT time error on 09:10?) or the existence of the 09:21 message. Only a deep search of the Gulf of Oman would reveal the truth. 

The answers to date are consistent with a straight forward loss of the aircraft on a routine flight. There are, however, still unanswered questions to explain discrepancies in the data presented. 

"The official report concludes the most likely reason for the loss was multiple engine failure causing the aeroplane to descend into the sea shortly after the last transmission. The last transmission broke up due to the trailing antenna wire touching the surface of the sea. The report goes into great detail describing the possible mechanical failures but suggests the failure of one engine could lead to one or more of the others failing due to increased stress. The Hannibal could fly on 3 engines but would be forced to slowly descend on 2 engines." (13) 

Any references, information, or insight to the whereabouts of the aircraft are welcomed. This may be a search for clarification from existing public records. Transcripts of AVIA 2/2311 held at the Public Records Office (Kew London), or elsewhere would be welcome. This is a continuing story that may still not become public knowledge should the secrecy period end in 2040.

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