Aircraft crash near Laxey, Isle of Man

1 fatality • Laxey, United Kingdom • Flight

A cargo flight diverted to RAF Jurby crashed into a cliffside and the sea during low-visibility approach conditions.

What happened

A scheduled cargo operation originally intended to fly from Blackpool-Squires Gate Airport to Douglas-Ronaldsway was redirected due to heavy fog at the destination airport. The airline opted to divert the flight to RAF Jurby, located on the northern part of the Isle of Man.

During the approach toward the island, the twin engine aircraft encountered significantly reduced visibility. While maneuvering through these low-visibility conditions, the plane struck a cliff near Laxey before plunging into the sea. The accident resulted in 1 fatality, involving the pilot.

Findings

Investigations into the crash determined that the primary factor was the pilot's failure to maintain separation from rising terrain while operating at a low altitude during periods of poor visibility.

Probable cause

The pilot failed to avoid ascending ground while flying at a low altitude in low-visibility conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1951-07-10 De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide accident near Laxey, United Kingdom?

A cargo flight diverted to RAF Jurby crashed into a cliffside and the sea during low-visibility approach conditions.

Were there any fatalities in the 1951-07-10 De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1951-07-10 involved a De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide, registration G-ALXJ, operated by Air Navigation & Trading Company (ANT Air Taxi), at Laxey, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot failed to avoid ascending ground while flying at a low altitude in low-visibility conditions.

Loading the flight search…