On June 24, 1934, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration NC924M) operated by Wedell-Williams Air Services was involved in an aviation accident near Patterson-Harry P. Williams, United States of America in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A structural failure shortly after takeoff caused the aircraft to become uncontrollable and crash into a field. 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.
An aircraft suffered a structural failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in loss of control and a crash into a field that killed both occupants.
What happened
The incident began immediately following the departure phase. Shortly after lifting off from the runway, the airframe experienced a critical structural failure. This mechanical breakdown rendered the aircraft uncontrollable, forcing it to descend rapidly into an adjacent agricultural area. The impact with the ground was severe enough to result in the death of both individuals on board.
Findings
The immediate cause of the accident was identified as the structural integrity loss occurring during the initial climb. While specific engineering details regarding the component failure are not provided in the available records, the event is classified as a post-takeoff mechanical anomaly leading to a total loss of control.
Probable cause
A structural failure shortly after takeoff caused the aircraft to become uncontrollable and crash into a field.
What happened in the 24 Jun 1934 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident near Patterson-Harry P. Williams, United States of America?
An aircraft suffered a structural failure shortly after takeoff, resulting in loss of control and a crash into a field that killed both occupants.
Were there any fatalities in the 24 Jun 1934 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 Jun 1934 involved a De Havilland DH.60 Moth, registration NC924M, operated by Wedell-Williams Air Services, at Patterson-Harry P. Williams, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
A structural failure shortly after takeoff caused the aircraft to become uncontrollable and crash into a field.
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