On June 20, 1935, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration ZK-ADO) operated by West Coast United Aero Club was involved in an aviation accident near Waiho, New Zealand during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A bundle of newspapers jammed the control column on approach, causing the airplane to be uncontrollable. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A single-engine aircraft crashed and burned during final approach to Waiho after a newspaper bundle reportedly jammed the controls, resulting in one fatality.
What happened
The incident involved a single-engine airplane operating a cargo mission to Waiho. The aircraft was transporting a load of newspapers along with the pilot and one female passenger. During the final approach phase, the pilot lost control of the aircraft. The plane subsequently crashed into the ground and immediately burst into flames.
Despite sustaining serious injuries, the pilot managed to evacuate the cabin. However, the passenger did not survive the accident and died in the burned wreckage.
Findings
Investigations indicated that a bundle of newspapers became lodged in the control column during the approach. This obstruction rendered the aircraft uncontrollable, leading directly to the loss of control and the subsequent crash.
Probable cause
A bundle of newspapers jammed the control column on approach, causing the airplane to be uncontrollable.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 20 Jun 1935 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident near Waiho, New Zealand?
A single-engine aircraft crashed and burned during final approach to Waiho after a newspaper bundle reportedly jammed the controls, resulting in one fatality.
Were there any fatalities in the 20 Jun 1935 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 20 Jun 1935 involved a De Havilland DH.60 Moth, registration ZK-ADO, operated by West Coast United Aero Club, at Waiho, New Zealand.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A bundle of newspapers jammed the control column on approach, causing the airplane to be uncontrollable.
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