2 fatalities

Training Flight Crash at Cue Airport Due to Engine Failure (VH-BIU)

Cue, AustraliaTakeoff (climb)

On June 29, 1948, an Avro 652 Anson (registration VH-BIU) operated by Airlines WA was involved in an aviation accident near Cue, Australia during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure shortly after rotation. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-05Data APIEditorial standards

A local training flight departed Cue Airport when an engine failed shortly after takeoff. The aircraft struck trees in a wooded area, resulting in the deaths of both pilots on board.

What happened

An incident occurred during a local training flight departing from Cue Airport. Shortly after rotation, the aircraft experienced an engine failure. As a result, the plane lost altitude and was unable to maintain controlled flight. The airframe subsequently impacted trees within a nearby wooded area, leading to a crash on the ground.

Findings

The official investigation concluded that the accident was caused by the loss of power immediately following liftoff. Both individuals aboard the aircraft, identified as the pilot and a second crew member, were killed in the event.

Probable cause

Engine failure shortly after rotation