1 fatality

1951-07-10: De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide (G-ALXJ) — Air Navigation & Trading Company (ANT Air Taxi) — Laxey, United Kingdom

Laxey, United KingdomFlight

On July 10, 1951, a De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide (registration G-ALXJ) operated by Air Navigation & Trading Company (ANT Air Taxi) was involved in an aviation accident near Laxey, United Kingdom in flight. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The probable cause of this accident was the failure of the pilot to avoid rising ground when flying at a low altitude in bad visibility. 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.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781256124Data APIEditorial standards

A scheduled cargo flight from Blackpool to Douglas was diverted to RAF Jurby due to fog. While approaching the island in low visibility, the twin-engine aircraft hit a cliff near Laxey and fell into the sea, killing the pilot.

Incident Overview

A scheduled cargo flight from Blackpool-Squires Gate Airport to Douglas-Ronaldsway was cancelled due to foggy conditions at the destination. The airline decided to divert the flight to RAF Jurby, located on the north side of the Isle of Man.

Accident Sequence

While approaching the island in low visibility, the twin-engine aircraft struck a cliff near Laxey and subsequently fell back into the sea. The pilot, Captain Walker, was killed in the accident.

Investigation Findings

No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, or other occupants have been released. The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident.