On April 18, 1938, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration VH-UPU) operated by Royal Victorian Aero Club was involved in an aviation accident near Ballarat, Australia in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident resulted from an engine failure caused by water entering the carburetor system. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A single-engine aircraft crashed after an engine failure over Ballarat, Australia. The pilot attempted an emergency landing, resulting in a fence collision and total loss of the airframe.
What happened
While flying over the city of Ballarat, located northwest of Melbourne, the aircraft experienced a sudden engine failure. In response to the loss of power, the pilot initiated an emergency landing procedure. During this maneuver, the airplane struck a fence and subsequently crashed into the ground. Both individuals on board sustained no injuries, although the airframe was destroyed in the impact.
Findings
Investigations determined that the mechanical failure originated from the presence of water in the carburetor. This contamination led to the engine stopping while the aircraft was in flight.
Probable cause
The accident resulted from an engine failure caused by water entering the carburetor system.
What happened in the 18 Apr 1938 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident near Ballarat, Australia?
A single-engine aircraft crashed after an engine failure over Ballarat, Australia. The pilot attempted an emergency landing, resulting in a fence collision and total loss of the airframe.
Were there any fatalities in the 18 Apr 1938 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 18 Apr 1938 involved a De Havilland DH.60 Moth, registration VH-UPU, operated by Royal Victorian Aero Club, at Ballarat, Australia.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The accident resulted from an engine failure caused by water entering the carburetor system.
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