4 fatalities

Training aircraft crash at RAF Abbotsinch kills all four crew (K6321)

Torrance, United KingdomFlight

On March 18, 1939, an Avro 652 Anson (registration K6321) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Torrance, United Kingdom in flight. 4 people were killed. 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)Source recordUpdated 2026-08-27Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a field after losing control in thick cloud during a training flight from RAF Abbotsinch, resulting in the deaths of all four crew members.

What happened

The incident occurred while the crew was conducting a training exercise departing from RAF Abbotsinch. The operation was being carried out on behalf of the 269th Squadron. During the flight, the twin-engine aircraft encountered a thick layer of cloud. Upon entering this weather condition, the aircraft went out of control and subsequently crashed into a nearby field. All four individuals aboard the aircraft were killed in the accident.

Findings

The source material does not provide specific technical findings or a formal investigation report regarding the mechanical or human factors that led to the loss of control.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Mar 1939 Avro 652 Anson accident near Torrance, United Kingdom?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a field after losing control in thick cloud during a training flight from RAF Abbotsinch, resulting in the deaths of all four crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 18 Mar 1939 Avro 652 Anson accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Mar 1939 involved an Avro 652 Anson, registration K6321, operated by Royal Air Force - RAF, at Torrance, United Kingdom.