No fatalities

Double Engine Failure Due to Fuel Exhaustion During Emergency Landing in Dungeness (G-AOCE)

Dungeness, United KingdomFlight

On January 15, 1958, a De Havilland DH.104 Dove (registration G-AOCE) operated by Channel Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Dungeness, United Kingdom in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Double engine failure caused by a fuel exhaustion. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A flight from Rotterdam to Southend was diverted to Lydd due to fog. After two go-arounds, both engines failed over Dungeness. The crew performed an emergency landing; all seven occupants were injured and the aircraft destroyed.

Flight and Diversion

During a flight from Rotterdam to Southend, as the aircraft neared the British coast, air traffic control informed the crew that landing at Southend was not possible because of fog. The aircraft was subsequently rerouted to Lydd Airport.

Approach Attempts

On the final approach to Lydd, the crew executed a go-around after failing to locate the runway. A second attempt to land at Lydd was also abandoned minutes later.

Engine Failure and Emergency Landing

While flying in the area of the Dungeness beaches, both engines stopped. The crew reduced altitude and carried out an emergency landing. The aircraft slid for a dozen yards before coming to rest.

Aftermath

All seven occupants sustained injuries. The aircraft was destroyed.

Probable Cause

According to the official findings, the probable cause of the accident was double engine failure caused by a fuel exhaustion.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Jan 1958 De Havilland DH.104 Dove accident near Dungeness, United Kingdom?

A flight from Rotterdam to Southend was diverted to Lydd due to fog. After two go-arounds, both engines failed over Dungeness. The crew performed an emergency landing; all seven occupants were injured and the aircraft destroyed.

Were there any fatalities in the 15 Jan 1958 De Havilland DH.104 Dove accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Jan 1958 involved a De Havilland DH.104 Dove, registration G-AOCE, operated by Channel Airways, at Dungeness, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Double engine failure caused by a fuel exhaustion.