5 fatalities

V3 Prototype Crash in Neustadt an der Holstein (PZ+BD)

Neustadt in Holstein, GermanyFlight

On September 11, 1940, a Blohm & Voss BV 142 (registration PZ+BD) operated by German Air Force - Deutsche Luftwaffe was involved in an aviation accident near Neustadt in Holstein, Germany in flight. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An engine fire occurred during flight, leading to the crash. 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 2026-08-04Data APIEditorial standards

A V3 prototype aircraft crashed in Neustadt an der Holstein during a test flight after suffering an engine fire, resulting in the deaths of all five occupants.

What happened

During a scheduled test flight, the V3 aircraft, identified as the third prototype of its series, experienced a critical mechanical failure. The incident began with an engine fire while the aircraft was airborne. Following the onset of the fire, the plane lost control or became inoperable and crashed into the area of Neustadt an der Holstein. All five individuals on board were civilians and perished in the accident.

Findings

The official investigation concluded that the primary cause of the accident was the engine fire occurring during flight. This mechanical failure led directly to the loss of the aircraft and the fatalities of all occupants.

Probable cause

An engine fire occurred during flight, leading to the crash.