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Training Aircraft Crash at RAF Saint Eval Following Engine Failure (K8766)

Saint Eval AFB, United KingdomTakeoff (climb)

On March 2, 1940, an Avro 652 Anson (registration K8766) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Saint Eval AFB, United Kingdom during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure shortly after takeoff led to a stall during the return approach, causing the aircraft to crash short of the runway. 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 trainer crashed shortly after takeoff from RAF Saint Eval due to an engine failure, resulting in serious injuries to both crew members.

What happened

The incident occurred during a local training exercise. Shortly after departing RAF Saint Eval, the aircraft experienced an engine failure while in the climb phase. The flight crew initiated a return to the airfield. During the final turn required to align with the runway, the aircraft entered a stall and impacted the ground approximately 200 meters short of the landing strip. Both members of the crew sustained serious injuries as a result of the crash.

Findings

The official investigation identified the immediate cause of the accident as an engine failure occurring immediately after takeoff.

Probable cause

Engine failure shortly after takeoff led to a stall during the return approach, causing the aircraft to crash short of the runway.

Related events

Same operator

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