British adventurer’s sons pay tribute to ‘loving father’ following Titan death

The sons of a British billionaire adventurer who was killed when the Titan submersible catastrophically imploded have paid tribute to a “loving father and family man”.

Hamish Harding, pilot and chairman of Action Aviation, was one of five people who died on board the deep-sea vessel near the wreckage of the Titanic.

His two sons, who were not named on either statement issued through the sales and operations company, said Mr Harding was the “best father I could have ever asked for”.

One said: “My dad was a tenacious, hardworking businessman – but most importantly he was the best father I could have ever asked for.

He inspired me more than anyone will ever know, taught me things I’ll never forget, and he meant everything to me

“He inspired me more than anyone will ever know, taught me things I’ll never forget, and he meant everything to me.

“Anyone who ever met my dad will praise his humorous personality, his sheer work ethic, and his constant generosity.

“My life will be a success if I’m even half the man he is. My dad is gone but I will never forget him.”

Mr Harding’s second son, who was also not named in the statement issued by Action Aviation, said he was a “loving father, family man and a determined and tireless businessman”.

Constantly full of wisdom and life advice to bestow, he made my brother and I into the people we are today

He said: “In all of these areas, he constantly sought to be the best man he could be and did nothing halfway.

“Constantly full of wisdom and life advice to bestow, he made my brother and I into the people we are today.

“He was an energetic and charismatic man who by the sheer weight of his personality lifted up and supported everyone around him.

“His tragic loss will be mourned not only by myself and my family, but everyone who had the pleasure to meet him.

“The world is so much less without his larger-than-life presence and his optimistic spirit.”