4 fatalities

Fatal Airshow Accident at Cardiff Airport (G-ALEC)

Cardiff, United KingdomFlight

On May 6, 1959, a De Havilland DH.104 Dove (registration G-ALEC) operated by Lec Refrigeration was involved in an aviation accident near Cardiff, United Kingdom in flight. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Pilot error. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A four-person aircraft crashed near Cardiff Airport during an airshow, killing all occupants. The official investigation attributed the incident to pilot error.

Incident Overview and Casualties An aircraft involved in an airshow at Cardiff Airport crashed in the vicinity of the airfield, resulting in the deaths of all four people on board. The flight carried a crew of two and two passengers. ## Operational Context The accident occurred while the airplane was flying near the airfield during the airshow event. The specific circumstances leading to the loss of control were not fully clarified in the source material. ## Official Investigation Findings The official investigation concluded that the accident was believed to be the consequence of pilot error. No other specific causes or contributing factors were detailed in the provided source.

Probable cause

Pilot error

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 May 1959 De Havilland DH.104 Dove accident near Cardiff, United Kingdom?

A four-person aircraft crashed near Cardiff Airport during an airshow, killing all occupants. The official investigation attributed the incident to pilot error.

Were there any fatalities in the 6 May 1959 De Havilland DH.104 Dove accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 May 1959 involved a De Havilland DH.104 Dove, registration G-ALEC, operated by Lec Refrigeration, at Cardiff, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Pilot error