But here we had a historically fairly insignificant aircraft, with presumably limited visual and aural impact (I admittedly never saw it fly myself) and (in my opinion) severe and known… and instrumentation (airspeed indicator) issues.

From the report, did it mention the ASI, other than a retrofit to some aircraft in the recommendations? Altimeter, yes

‘Altimeter u/s….altimeter is of small scale type
which is of little practical use to the pilot at low levels.’

I’m just questioning whether it is always worthwhile, but am admittedly not much of a risk-taker myself.

He was an exceptionally talented aviator, with what can really only be described as an exceptional level of experience (15,000hrs for an ex-RAF FJ pilot was good going). He was experienced enough to make his own decision, which in this case was endorsed by his “superior” at the collection.

Hopefully some processes will be put in place to make the decision making process, and the data available on which to make the decision, better.

What a sad loss of life.

The main point, agreed. A loss to everybody.