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)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data 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.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Sept 1952 Avro 652 Anson accident near Telford, United Kingdom?

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.

Were there any fatalities in the 12 Sept 1952 Avro 652 Anson accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Sept 1952 involved an Avro 652 Anson, registration VV987, operated by Royal Air Force - RAF, at Telford, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A lack of concentration of the pilot due to the technical issue with the elevators.