1 fatality

De Havilland DH.60 Moth Crash at Berlin-Tempelhof (G-W101)

Berlin-Tempelhof, GermanyTakeoff (climb)

On June 6, 1927, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration G-W101) operated by Deutsche Sportflieger Klub was involved in an aviation accident near Berlin-Tempelhof, Germany during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact cause of the crash was never determined, though the incident resulted in a temporary ban on certifying the aircraft type in Germany. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-04Data APIEditorial standards

A De Havilland DH.60 Moth crashed shortly after takeoff from Berlin-Tempelhof during a local test flight, resulting in the death of the sole pilot on board.

What happened

The incident involved a De Havilland DH.60 Moth operating out of Berlin-Tempelhof. The aircraft was conducting a local test flight when it encountered difficulties shortly after takeoff. During the initial climb phase, the plane went out of control and crashed into the ground. The pilot, who was the only person on board, was killed in the accident.

Findings

Official investigations determined that the specific reason for the crash remained unknown. However, this event had significant regulatory consequences, as it led to an initial refusal by German authorities to certify the De Havilland DH.60 Moth for operation within their jurisdiction.

Probable cause

The exact cause of the crash was never determined, though the incident resulted in a temporary ban on certifying the aircraft type in Germany.