2 fatalities

Fatal training accident near Farnborough (WF984)

Farnborough, United KingdomTakeoff (climb)

On November 24, 1959, a De Havilland DH.104 Dove (registration WF984) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Farnborough, United Kingdom during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Mechanical failure involving the undercarriage prevented the aircraft from gaining enough altitude to clear trees. 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 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A training flight departing from Farnborough ended in a fatal crash after the aircraft encountered landing gear issues shortly after takeoff.

What happened

During a local training mission operating out of Farnborough, an aircraft experienced significant mechanical difficulties immediately following departure. While climbing, the crew encountered complications regarding the undercarriage. Due to these technical issues, the plane was unable to achieve the necessary altitude to clear surrounding obstacles.

As the flight progressed, the aircraft made contact with treetops and subsequently crashed within a wooded region. The accident resulted in two fatalities, as both members of the crew perished in the impact.

Findings

  • The primary factor in the crash was technical problems with the undercarriage which prevented the aircraft from maintaining sufficient height during the initial climb phase.

Probable cause

Mechanical failure involving the undercarriage prevented the aircraft from gaining enough altitude to clear trees.