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Fatal engine failure during training sortie at Courtrai-Wevelgem (D-61)

Courtrai-Wevelgem, BelgiumFlight

On June 15, 1925, a De Havilland DH.9 (registration D-61) operated by Belgian Air Force - Force Aérienne Belge - Belgische Luchtmacht was involved in an aviation accident near Courtrai-Wevelgem, Belgium in flight. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An engine fire and explosion during flight led to a loss of control and subsequent impact with the ground. 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 2026-08-04Data APIEditorial standards

A single-engine aircraft crashed into a field near Courtrai-Wevelgem Airport after an in-flight engine fire and explosion, resulting in the death of the sole occupant.

What happened

The incident occurred while the pilot was conducting a local training flight at Courtrai-Wevelgem Airport. During the sortie, the aircraft's engine ignited and subsequently exploded. The sudden mechanical failure caused the pilot to lose control of the airframe. The machine then entered an uncontrolled dive and impacted the ground in a field located in close proximity to the airport. The sole occupant, the pilot, was killed in the crash.

Findings

The official investigation identified the immediate cause of the accident as an engine fire and explosion that occurred while the aircraft was airborne.

Probable cause

An engine fire and explosion during flight led to a loss of control and subsequent impact with the ground.

Related events

Same operator

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