Engine failure and ditching of aircraft over the Solent

No fatalities • Calshot AFB, United Kingdom • Flight

An aircraft flying from Jersey to Blackbushe ditched in the Solent near Calshot following a dual engine failure caused by fuel exhaustion.

What happened

During a flight traveling from Jersey toward Blackbushe, an aircraft experienced simultaneous power loss in both engines while positioned over the Isle of Wight. In response to the mechanical issues, the pilot initiated a descent to lower the altitude.

The aircraft subsequently performed a ditching maneuver on the waters of the Solent, specifically in the area off Calshot. Although the aircraft submerged and was subsequently lost, all 11 occupants were successfully recovered from the water by the crew of a nearby yacht before being moved to land.

Findings

Investigations into the incident concluded that the dual engine failure occurred because of fuel exhaustion. The official findings suggest that the pilot did not sufficiently prepare for the flight, specifically failing to ensure the aircraft was refueled at Jersey (Saint Peter) Airport prior to departure.

Probable cause

The engines failed during flight because the aircraft ran out of fuel due to inadequate pre-flight preparation and failure to refuel at the origin airport.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1955-08-06 Avro 652 Anson accident near Calshot AFB, United Kingdom?

An aircraft flying from Jersey to Blackbushe ditched in the Solent near Calshot following a dual engine failure caused by fuel exhaustion.

Were there any fatalities in the 1955-08-06 Avro 652 Anson accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1955-08-06 involved a Avro 652 Anson, registration G-AHIG, operated by Fairways Jersey, at Calshot AFB, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engines failed during flight because the aircraft ran out of fuel due to inadequate pre-flight preparation and failure to refuel at the origin airport.

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