On December 27, 1945, a De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide (registration G-ACZE) operated by Allied Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Kirkwall, United Kingdom during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control during takeoff resulting from an engine failure. 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 stalled during initial climb after an engine failure, crashing onto the runway. All six occupants survived without injury, but the airframe was damaged beyond repair.
What happened
During the takeoff phase, specifically while in the initial climb, the aircraft experienced a loss of control. The machine subsequently stalled and came to rest on the runway surface. Despite the severity of the impact, all six individuals on board escaped without sustaining injuries. However, the structural damage sustained by the airframe was extensive enough that it was declared beyond repair.
Findings
The official investigation concluded that the incident was caused by a loss of control during takeoff. This loss of control was attributed to an engine failure occurring at the start of the flight.
Probable cause
Loss of control during takeoff resulting from an engine failure.
What happened in the 27 Dec 1945 De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide accident near Kirkwall, United Kingdom?
An aircraft stalled during initial climb after an engine failure, crashing onto the runway. All six occupants survived without injury, but the airframe was damaged beyond repair.
Were there any fatalities in the 27 Dec 1945 De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 27 Dec 1945 involved a De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide, registration G-ACZE, operated by Allied Airways, at Kirkwall, United Kingdom.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Loss of control during takeoff resulting from an engine failure.
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