2 fatalities

Cargo Flight Veers Off Runway at Brindisi, Two Killed (G-AGRG)

Brindisi, ItalyTakeoff (climb)

On January 27, 1959, an Avro 689 Tudor (registration G-AGRG) operated by Air Charter Ltd London was involved in an aviation accident near Brindisi, Italy during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Strong crosswinds with gusts and the ground condition on the edge of the runway. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 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 cargo flight from England to Australia veered left off runway 32 at Brindisi Airport after a 550 m ground run. Rough terrain tore off the left landing gear; the aircraft came to rest 820 m past the threshold and burst into flames, killing two crew and injuring four.

Accident Details

A cargo flight originating in England and destined for Australia made an intermediate stop at Brindisi Airport. During takeoff from runway 32, the aircraft swerved left off the runway after a ground run of approximately 550 meters. The terrain at the side of the runway was rough, causing the left landing gear leg to be torn from the aircraft.

The aircraft continued past the runway threshold, coming to rest at a distance of 820 meters. Upon stopping, it burst into flames, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft by fire.

Casualties

Two crew members were killed in the accident. Four other individuals sustained injuries.

Likely Cause

Official findings indicate that the accident was caused by strong crosswinds with gusts combined with the ground condition on the edge of the runway.

Probable cause

Strong crosswinds with gusts and the ground condition on the edge of the runway.