1 fatality

Shoreham Private Flight Crash Into Sea (G-ABBW)

Shoreham-by-Sea, United KingdomTakeoff (climb)

On June 27, 1939, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration G-ABBW) operated by Brooklands Flying Club was involved in an aviation accident near Shoreham-by-Sea, United Kingdom during takeoff. One person was killed. 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.

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

A single-engine aircraft departed Shoreham on a local private flight and crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff, resulting in the fatality of the sole occupant.

What happened

The incident involved a private aircraft operating out of Shoreham. The pilot was the only person on board at the time of departure. Shortly after leaving the ground, the airplane entered its initial climb phase. During this ascent, the aircraft lost control and subsequently impacted the water surface off the coast of Shoreham.

The pilot sustained serious injuries during the crash. Despite immediate medical attention, the individual succumbed to their wounds the following day.

Findings

The source material does not provide specific technical findings or a detailed investigation report regarding the mechanical or human factors contributing to the loss of control.