2 fatalities

RAF Moth Collision with Siskin Near Chichester (K1838)

Chichester, United KingdomTakeoff (climb)

On April 23, 1931, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration K1838) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Chichester, United Kingdom during takeoff. 2 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 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

An RAF Moth collided with an Armstrong Whitworth Siskin shortly after takeoff from RAF Tangmere. The Moth crashed near Chichester, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.

What happened

The incident occurred shortly after the aircraft departed RAF Tangmere on a scheduled flight to RAF Uxbridge. During the initial climb phase, the airplane collided with an RAF Armstrong Whitworth Siskin registered J8893. Following the mid-air collision, the pilot of the Siskin retained control of their aircraft and was able to execute a safe landing. In contrast, the Moth lost stability and entered an uncontrolled descent. The wreckage came to rest in Seahurst Park, located near Chichester. Both individuals on board the Moth were killed in the crash.

Findings

The collision resulted in fatal injuries for both occupants of the Moth. The crew consisted of two officers, identified only by their ranks and surnames in available records as AVM Holt and F/Lt Moody. No further technical details regarding the specific mechanical or procedural causes of the collision are provided in the source material.