On May 20, 1931, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration G-EBLX) operated by Newcastle-upon-Tyne Aero Club was involved in an aviation accident near Blyth, United Kingdom in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Water contamination in the fuel system contributed to the engine failure. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 5 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A private aircraft suffered an engine failure en route from Cramlington Airport, resulting in an emergency field landing at Blyth where both occupants were injured and the airframe was destroyed.
What happened
The incident involved a private flight departing from Cramlington Airport. During the en-route phase, the aircraft experienced a total engine failure. The pilot executed an emergency landing in an open field near Blyth to avoid further damage or loss of life. Upon impact, the airframe sustained structural damage that rendered it beyond repair. Both individuals on board suffered injuries as a result of the crash.
Findings
Investigation into the event identified contamination within the fuel system as a significant issue. Specifically, the presence of water in the fuel was determined to be a contributory factor leading to the engine stopping. This mechanical failure necessitated the emergency descent and subsequent hard landing.
Probable cause
Water contamination in the fuel system contributed to the engine failure.
What happened in the 20 May 1931 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident near Blyth, United Kingdom?
A private aircraft suffered an engine failure en route from Cramlington Airport, resulting in an emergency field landing at Blyth where both occupants were injured and the airframe was destroyed.
Were there any fatalities in the 20 May 1931 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 May 1931 involved a De Havilland DH.60 Moth, registration G-EBLX, operated by Newcastle-upon-Tyne Aero Club, at Blyth, United Kingdom.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Water contamination in the fuel system contributed to the engine failure.
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