1 fatality

Night Approach Accident at RAF Detling (R3389)

Detling, United KingdomLanding (descent or approach)

On May 31, 1940, an Avro 652 Anson (registration R3389) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Detling, United Kingdom during landing or approach. One person was killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-04Data APIEditorial standards

A maritime patrol aircraft crashed during a night approach to RAF Detling after flying over the North Sea, resulting in one fatality and three injuries among the crew.

What happened

The incident occurred while the aircraft was conducting a night approach to RAF Detling. The flight had just completed a maritime patrol mission over the North Sea prior to the accident. Upon impact, the crash resulted in significant casualties for the flight deck.

A total of four crew members were on board at the time of the event. One individual lost their life in the collision, while three others sustained injuries. The specific roles of the personnel included a pilot, a wireless operator who also served as an air gunner, and two other crew members assisting with navigation and operations.

Findings

The source material does not provide detailed technical findings or a formal investigation report regarding the mechanical condition of the aircraft or specific human factors contributing to the crash. The record confirms the sequence of events: a patrol flight followed by an approach phase that ended in a fatal accident.