On March 21, 1941, an Avro 652 Anson (registration K6248) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Rednal AFB, United Kingdom in flight. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot failed to see or negotiate a large oak tree during a low-level maneuver and likely applied full power too late to recover. 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.
During a low-level night exercise from RAF Cranage, an aircraft struck treetops and crashed in a wooded area near Hawkeswood Farm, resulting in the deaths of all five personnel on board.
What happened
The incident occurred during a night training exercise conducted out of RAF Cranage. The crew was performing low-altitude maneuvers when the aircraft encountered obstacles in the terrain. Specifically, the airframe struck treetops while flying over a wooded area situated at Hawkeswood Farm, near Rednal. This impact led to an immediate crash into the forest floor. All five crew members were killed in the accident. The personnel on board included two pilots, one radio operator, and two other service members.
Findings
Official investigations concluded that the pilot failed to see or negotiate a large oak tree while executing a dummy run for precautionary landing practice. It is assessed that the throttle was opened too late to allow for recovery from the low altitude.
Probable cause
The pilot failed to see or negotiate a large oak tree during a low-level maneuver and likely applied full power too late to recover.
What happened in the 21 Mar 1941 Avro 652 Anson accident near Rednal AFB, United Kingdom?
During a low-level night exercise from RAF Cranage, an aircraft struck treetops and crashed in a wooded area near Hawkeswood Farm, resulting in the deaths of all five personnel on board.
Were there any fatalities in the 21 Mar 1941 Avro 652 Anson accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Mar 1941 involved an Avro 652 Anson, registration K6248, operated by Royal Air Force - RAF, at Rednal AFB, United Kingdom.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot failed to see or negotiate a large oak tree during a low-level maneuver and likely applied full power too late to recover.
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