On May 25, 1930, a De Havilland DH.60 Moth (registration G-CARX) operated by Great Western Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Calgary, Canada during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft stalled during the climb phase following takeoff, leading to a loss of control and subsequent crash into the river. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft stalled shortly after takeoff from Calgary and crashed into the Elbow River, resulting in injuries to the pilot.
What happened
Following departure from Calgary, the aircraft was in a climbing phase when it entered an aerodynamic stall. The loss of lift caused the plane to descend rapidly, ultimately impacting the surface of the Elbow River.
The crash resulted in physical trauma to the pilot, who sustained injuries during the incident. No other fatalities or injuries were reported in this event.
Findings
The immediate sequence of events indicates that the aircraft lost airspeed while ascending from the runway. This loss of lift led directly to the stall condition, which prevented the crew from maintaining controlled flight and resulted in the impact with the water body.
Probable cause
The aircraft stalled during the climb phase following takeoff, leading to a loss of control and subsequent crash into the river.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 25 May 1930 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident near Calgary, Canada?
An aircraft stalled shortly after takeoff from Calgary and crashed into the Elbow River, resulting in injuries to the pilot.
Were there any fatalities in the 25 May 1930 De Havilland DH.60 Moth accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 May 1930 involved a De Havilland DH.60 Moth, registration G-CARX, operated by Great Western Airways, at Calgary, Canada.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The aircraft stalled during the climb phase following takeoff, leading to a loss of control and subsequent crash into the river.
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