Engine failure leads to water landing in River Thames

No fatalities • Canvey Island, United Kingdom • Flight

A crew was forced to ditch an aircraft into the Thames near Canvey Island, Essex, following a simultaneous loss of power in both engines.

What happened

During a flight near Canvey Island in Essex, the aircraft experienced a critical malfunction involving its propulsion system. A double engine failure occurred while the plane was in flight, leaving the crew without sufficient power to maintain altitude or continue the planned route.

In response to the loss of both engines, the crew executed an emergency procedure to ditch the aircraft into the River Thames. The landing took place in the waters off the Essex coast. Following the impact with the water, rescue operations were initiated. Both members of the crew were successfully recovered from the scene without fatal injuries. However, the aircraft itself was not recovered and is considered lost.

Findings

Official investigations into the incident concluded that the primary factor leading to the emergency landing was the simultaneous failure of both engines during the flight phase.

Probable cause

The aircraft suffered a complete loss of power due to the failure of both engines during flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1953-12-29 Avro 652 Anson accident near Canvey Island, United Kingdom?

A crew was forced to ditch an aircraft into the Thames near Canvey Island, Essex, following a simultaneous loss of power in both engines.

Were there any fatalities in the 1953-12-29 Avro 652 Anson accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1953-12-29 involved a Avro 652 Anson, registration PH812, operated by Royal Air Force - RAF, at Canvey Island, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft suffered a complete loss of power due to the failure of both engines during flight.

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