No fatalities

Post-takeoff engine failure leads to crash landing near Southampton (G-AADB)

Southampton, United KingdomTakeoff (climb)

On June 29, 1937, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration G-AADB) operated by Yapton Aero Club was involved in an aviation accident near Southampton, United Kingdom during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident resulted from an engine failure occurring shortly after takeoff. 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

An aircraft suffered an engine failure shortly after departing Southampton-Eastleigh Airport, forcing the crew to execute an emergency landing in a field where the airframe was destroyed.

What happened

The incident occurred during a scheduled flight operating between Southampton and Portsmouth. The aircraft departed from Southampton-Eastleigh Airport when the powerplant ceased functioning almost immediately after liftoff. Facing this critical mechanical failure, the crew initiated an emergency procedure to land as safely as possible. They directed the machine into a nearby field, resulting in a crash landing that left the airframe completely destroyed.

During the event, the pilot sustained minor injuries, while the co-pilot was reported to be shocked by the circumstances. No fatalities were recorded in this occurrence.

Probable cause

The accident resulted from an engine failure occurring shortly after takeoff.