On December 16, 1957, a De Havilland DH.104 Dove (registration OE-FAC) operated by Aero Transport was involved in an aviation accident near Leavesden, United Kingdom during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway threshold due to an insufficient approach altitude. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A delivery flight approaching Leavesden Airfield resulted in a ground strike after the aircraft descended below the required altitude.
What happened
During a delivery operation originating from Austria, an aircraft was performing its final approach to Leavesden Airfield. As the flight progressed toward the runway threshold, the plane descended too low and made contact with the terrain before the runway began. The impact caused the aircraft to come to a stop on the ground.
There were two crew members on board at the time of the incident. Both individuals sustained slight injuries during the event. The aircraft itself suffered damage that rendered it beyond repair.
Findings
The primary factor in the accident was that the aircraft was flying too low during the final approach phase.
Probable cause
The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway threshold due to an insufficient approach altitude.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 16 Dec 1957 De Havilland DH.104 Dove accident near Leavesden, United Kingdom?
A delivery flight approaching Leavesden Airfield resulted in a ground strike after the aircraft descended below the required altitude.
Were there any fatalities in the 16 Dec 1957 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 16 Dec 1957 involved a De Havilland DH.104 Dove, registration OE-FAC, operated by Aero Transport, at Leavesden, United Kingdom.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft struck the ground short of the runway threshold due to an insufficient approach altitude.
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