On November 29, 1939, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration A7-62) operated by Royal Australian Air Force - RAAF was involved in an aviation accident near Point Cook (Melbourne), Australia during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A structural failure of one of the aircraft's wings caused the plane to lose control during climb-out. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A military aircraft suffered a catastrophic wing failure shortly after departing Point Cook Airbase, resulting in a crash into a field three kilometers away and the deaths of both pilots on board.
What happened
The incident occurred immediately following departure from Point Cook Airbase. During the initial climb phase, shortly after takeoff, one of the aircraft's wings failed structurally. This sudden loss of structural integrity caused the aircraft to become uncontrollable. The plane subsequently dove toward the ground and impacted a field situated approximately three kilometers from the airport perimeter. Both members of the crew were killed in the accident.
Findings
The official investigation identified the root cause as a structure failure on a wing. This mechanical defect led directly to the loss of control and the subsequent fatal crash.
Probable cause
A structural failure of one of the aircraft's wings caused the plane to lose control during climb-out.
What happened in the 29 Nov 1939 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident near Point Cook (Melbourne), Australia?
A military aircraft suffered a catastrophic wing failure shortly after departing Point Cook Airbase, resulting in a crash into a field three kilometers away and the deaths of both pilots on board.
Were there any fatalities in the 29 Nov 1939 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Nov 1939 involved a De Havilland DH.60 Moth, registration A7-62, operated by Royal Australian Air Force - RAAF, at Point Cook (Melbourne), Australia.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A structural failure of one of the aircraft's wings caused the plane to lose control during climb-out.
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