No fatalities

Twin-engine aircraft crash at RAF Leuchars due to engine failure (K8834)

Leuchars AFB, United KingdomLanding (descent or approach)

On June 6, 1939, an Avro 652 Anson (registration K8834) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Leuchars AFB, United Kingdom during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure during final approach. 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 twin-engine aircraft crashed into a ditch short of the runway at RAF Leuchars after suffering an engine failure during final approach, resulting in injuries to both pilots.

What happened

During the final approach phase to RAF Leuchars, a twin-engine aircraft experienced a mechanical malfunction. The incident involved an engine failure that compromised the aircraft's ability to maintain flight path and speed. As a result of this loss of power, the plane stalled and descended rapidly toward the ground.

The aircraft impacted a ditch situated short of the runway threshold. Following the crash, emergency services responded to the scene where it was determined that both members of the crew sustained injuries. There were no fatalities reported in this event.

Findings

Official investigations identified the primary factor leading to the accident as the loss of engine power while the aircraft was on approach. This mechanical failure prevented the crew from completing a safe landing, directly causing the stall and subsequent impact with the terrain.

Probable cause

Engine failure during final approach