De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver crash during thunderstorm

3 fatalities • Datteln, Germany • Flight

A De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver crashed following structural failure caused by severe weather conditions.

What happened

During a period of intense thunderstorm activity, the De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver was observed exiting a cloud formation in a sharp, steep descent. Shortly after this maneuver, the aircraft's wing structure failed, leading to the impact. The accident resulted in fatalities (count not specified in source).

Findings

Investigations into the crash suggest that the aircraft encountered significant turbulence or aerodynamic forces during the storm. It is believed that the plane experienced unintended negative G-loads while flying through the thunderstorm. This sudden force caused a bolt in the lower wing strut to shear, which compromised the structural integrity and bracing of the wing. Records indicate that other aircraft within the US Military Behavier fleet had been involved in similar fatal incidents under comparable weather conditions.

Probable cause

The shearing of a lower wing strut bolt due to inadvertent negative G-loads encountered during a thunderstorm.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1971-05-14 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Datteln, Germany?

A De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver crashed following structural failure caused by severe weather conditions.

Were there any fatalities in the 1971-05-14 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1971-05-14 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration XP807, operated by British Army Air Corps, at Datteln, Germany.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The shearing of a lower wing strut bolt due to inadvertent negative G-loads encountered during a thunderstorm.

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