1 fatality

Aircraft collision with trees during initial climb (A7-19)

Wangaratta, AustraliaTakeoff (climb)

On March 7, 1929, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration A7-19) operated by Royal Australian Air Force - RAAF was involved in an aviation accident near Wangaratta, Australia during takeoff. One person was killed. 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.

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

An aircraft struck tree tops shortly after takeoff and crashed into flames. The second pilot perished while the first pilot sustained severe burns attempting a rescue.

What happened

The incident occurred during the initial climb phase of flight, shortly after the aircraft had departed the runway. During this early stage of ascent, the airframe collided with the tops of trees. The impact resulted in an immediate crash, and the wreckage quickly burst into flames.

Inside the burning fuselage, the second pilot became trapped. The first pilot attempted to enter the wreckage to assist his colleague in escaping. While trying to save the trapped individual, the rescuer sustained severe burns. Despite these efforts, the second pilot did not survive the accident and perished inside the aircraft.

Findings

The source material notes a significant professional connection between the survivor and aviation safety oversight. At the time of this tragedy, the first pilot was serving as the Secretary of the Air Accidents Investigation Committee.