On April 21, 1936, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration G-AARE) operated by Lawrence Aircraft Hire was involved in an aviation accident near Mt Cross Fell, United Kingdom in flight. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Low visibility due to poor weather conditions led to a controlled or uncontrolled impact with terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A single-engine aircraft crashed into the slope of Cross Fell near Carlisle due to low visibility, resulting in the death of the pilot.
What happened
The incident involved a single-engine aircraft operating a flight from West Malling to Kingsdown. During the journey, which took place in the region of Carlisle, the pilot encountered deteriorating weather conditions that significantly reduced visibility. While navigating these poor visual conditions, the aircraft struck the slope of Cross Fell. This mountain is the highest point in the Pennines, reaching an elevation of 893 metres. The impact with the terrain resulted in the destruction of the airframe and caused the fatality of the pilot on board.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was the encounter with low visibility caused by poor weather conditions during the flight phase.
Probable cause
Low visibility due to poor weather conditions led to a controlled or uncontrolled impact with terrain.
What happened in the 21 Apr 1936 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident near Mt Cross Fell, United Kingdom?
A single-engine aircraft crashed into the slope of Cross Fell near Carlisle due to low visibility, resulting in the death of the pilot.
Were there any fatalities in the 21 Apr 1936 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Apr 1936 involved a De Havilland DH.60 Moth, registration G-AARE, operated by Lawrence Aircraft Hire, at Mt Cross Fell, United Kingdom.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Low visibility due to poor weather conditions led to a controlled or uncontrolled impact with terrain.
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