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Twin-Engine Aircraft Crash in Padstow During Return to Bankstown (VH-BFI)

Bankstown, AustraliaLanding (descent or approach)

On January 13, 1952, an Avro 652 Anson (registration VH-BFI) operated by Overland Air Services was involved in an aviation accident near Bankstown, Australia during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft crashed in Padstow while returning to Bankstown Airport after an engine failure. The pilot and stewardess died, while the passenger was slightly injured.

Incident Overview and Flight Details The aircraft was returning to its base in Sydney-Mascot and departed Bankstown Airport at 1528LT with one pilot on board, a stewardess, and her son. Approaching Sydney, the pilot decided to return to Bankstown and informed air traffic control shortly later that an engine had failed, requesting assistance for a straight-in approach. While descending to Bankstown Airfield, the twin-engine aircraft went out of control and crashed in flames in Padstow, about 4.5 km southeast of the airport. The stewardess was killed instantly, while the pilot was seriously injured and the child was slightly injured. A few hours later, the pilot died from his injuries. The crew consisted of B. J. Moore, pilot, and L. F. Gregory, stewardess. The passenger was L. T. Gregory.

Probable cause

Engine failure
Engine failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Jan 1952 Avro 652 Anson accident near Bankstown, Australia?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed in Padstow while returning to Bankstown Airport after an engine failure. The pilot and stewardess died, while the passenger was slightly injured.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 Jan 1952 Avro 652 Anson accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Jan 1952 involved an Avro 652 Anson, registration VH-BFI, operated by Overland Air Services, at Bankstown, Australia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine failure

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