4 fatalities

Maritime patrol aircraft crash shortly after takeoff from RAF Detling (N5228)

Detling, United KingdomTakeoff (climb)

On July 10, 1940, an Avro 652 Anson (registration N5228) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Detling, United Kingdom during takeoff. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft stalled shortly after takeoff, leading to a crash and subsequent fire. 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 2026-08-05Data APIEditorial standards

A maritime patrol aircraft stalled and crashed into flames shortly after departing RAF Detling, resulting in four fatalities and one injury among the crew.

What happened

The incident involved an aircraft operating a maritime patrol mission originating from RAF Detling. During the initial climb phase, immediately following departure, the airframe experienced a stall. This loss of lift led to a crash where the machine subsequently caught fire.

The accident resulted in significant casualties for the flight crew. Four crew members were killed during the event, while a fifth individual sustained injuries. The source material lists specific ranks and roles for the personnel on board, including a pilot, an observer, a wireless operator, an air gunner, and a Leading Aircraftman, though no private names are repeated in this summary to maintain neutrality.

Findings

The immediate cause of the accident was identified as a stall occurring shortly after takeoff. The source text does not provide further detailed investigation findings or contributing factors beyond this initial mechanical failure during the climb-out phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft stalled shortly after takeoff, leading to a crash and subsequent fire.