1 fatality

Fatal Crash of Private Aircraft in Wallington (G-AIZI)

Croydon, United KingdomTakeoff (climb)

On September 14, 1952, a De Havilland DH.89 Dragon Rapide (registration G-AIZI) operated by Private Great Britain was involved in an aviation accident near Croydon, United Kingdom during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure. 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 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A private aircraft crashed into a church wall in Wallington shortly after takeoff from Croydon Airport due to a right engine failure, resulting in the death of the sole occupant.

Incident Overview

An aviation accident occurred involving a privately owned and piloted aircraft. The incident took place during the initial climb phase immediately following departure from Croydon Airport. The pilot at the time of the accident was Rodney Reuben Carne, who also held ownership of the machine.

Sequence of Events

According to official investigation findings, the right engine failed shortly after takeoff. This mechanical failure led to a loss of control by the pilot. Consequently, the aircraft entered a stall and descended rapidly toward the ground. The plane ultimately crashed into the wall of a church situated in the center of Wallington.

Damage and Casualties

The impact forces sustained during the collision destroyed the aircraft. A post-crash fire further contributed to the total loss of the airframe. The sole occupant on board, pilot Rodney Reuben Carne, was killed in the incident.

Probable cause

Engine failure