1 fatality

Fatal Solo Training Accident Involving RAF Shawbury Pilot (VV987)

Telford, United KingdomFlight

On September 12, 1952, an Avro 652 Anson (registration VV987) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Telford, United Kingdom in flight. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A lack of concentration of the pilot due to the technical issue with the elevators. 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 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot was killed when a twin-engine aircraft struck the slope of Mt The Wrekin near Telford after experiencing elevator technical problems during a solo training sortie from RAF Shawbury.

Incident Overview and Flight Details A pilot identified as F/Sgt Alexander Walter Gee was conducting a solo training sortie that originated from RAF Shawbury. During the flight, the pilot completed an approach to the airfield but subsequently decided to proceed to a different airbase. This decision was made after the pilot encountered technical problems affecting the elevators of the aircraft. ## Crash Location and Outcome The twin-engine aircraft subsequently impacted the slope of Mt The Wrekin, which is located near Telford. The collision resulted in the destruction of the aircraft and the death of the pilot. ## Probable Cause Assessment The investigation indicated that the accident may have been caused by a lack of concentration on the part of the pilot, potentially resulting from the technical issue with the elevators.