What happened
On the morning of the accident, an aircraft operating on behalf of the Air Ministry was performing a chartered flight from Malta to Habbaniya, Iraq. The mission involved transporting members of the RAF along with their families. At roughly 09:30 GMT, the aircraft began its takeoff roll on a temporary runway. During the initial stages of the run, after covering approximately 300 yards, the plane experienced a significant swing toward the starboard side.
This movement caused the tires to skid intensely. Within less than 100 additional yards of travel, the aircraft departed the right side of the runway while maintaining a speed of approximately 45 knots. As the plane reached a French drain located about 25 feet from the edge of the runway, the landing gear failed. The starboard wheel detached, causing the aircraft to come to rest on its belly and port wheel, eventually facing nearly the opposite direction of its original takeoff heading.
The accident resulted in two fatalities, including one aircraftsman and a four-year-old girl. Additionally, four passengers sustained serious injuries.
Findings
Investigations into the incident concluded that the pilot attempted to correct a portward course, but this action led to an over-correction. This maneuver, which may have been paired with the application of the starboard brake, caused the aircraft to swing right and exit the runway. The subsequent impact with the French drain led to the collapse of the undercarriage. The official assessment characterized the pilot's actions as a significant error in judgment and skill.