On June 4, 1940, an Avro 652 Anson (registration L7047) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Thorney Island AFB, United Kingdom during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot was blinded by searchlight on approach, causing the airplane to crash into the sea. 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.
A maritime patrol aircraft crashed into the North Sea during final approach to RAF Thorney Island. All four crew members were rescued before the airframe sank.
What happened
The incident occurred while the aircraft was returning to RAF Thorney Island after completing a maritime patrol mission over the North Sea. During the final approach phase, the machine lost control and descended into the water approximately a few hundred yards from the shore. The airframe subsequently sank and was declared a total loss. All four members of the crew were successfully rescued while the aircraft was still in the water.
Findings
Official investigations indicated that the pilot likely suffered temporary blindness caused by searchlight glare during the approach. This visual impairment is believed to have resulted in the loss of control, leading directly to the impact with the sea.
Probable cause
The pilot was blinded by searchlight on approach, causing the airplane to crash into the sea.
What happened in the 4 Jun 1940 Avro 652 Anson accident near Thorney Island AFB, United Kingdom?
A maritime patrol aircraft crashed into the North Sea during final approach to RAF Thorney Island. All four crew members were rescued before the airframe sank.
Were there any fatalities in the 4 Jun 1940 Avro 652 Anson accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Jun 1940 involved an Avro 652 Anson, registration L7047, operated by Royal Air Force - RAF, at Thorney Island AFB, United Kingdom.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot was blinded by searchlight on approach, causing the airplane to crash into the sea.
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