Fatal single-engine aircraft crash near M3 motorway

2 fatalities • Basingstoke, United Kingdom • Landing (descent or approach)

A single-engine airplane crashed and caught fire near the M3 motorway during an attempted landing in heavy fog, resulting in two fatalities.

What happened

A liaison flight departing from Middle Wallop ended in a fatal accident when the aircraft failed to complete its landing sequence. During the flight, which included the pilot and one passenger, the crew attempted to land within a field under conditions of heavy fog. During this maneuver, the single-engine airplane overshot the intended landing area and collided with a fence.

The impact caused the aircraft to crash near the M3 motorway, where it subsequently erupted into flames. The intensity of the fire resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. There were two fatalities recorded, as both the pilot and the passenger perished in the accident.

Findings

The primary factor contributing to the accident was the attempt to land in foggy conditions, which led to the aircraft overshooting its target area and striking an obstacle.

Probable cause

The pilot attempted to land in low-visibility fog, causing the aircraft to overshoot the field and strike a fence.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1980-01-14 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Basingstoke, United Kingdom?

A single-engine airplane crashed and caught fire near the M3 motorway during an attempted landing in heavy fog, resulting in two fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1980-01-14 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1980-01-14 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration XP819, operated by British Army Air Corps, at Basingstoke, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot attempted to land in low-visibility fog, causing the aircraft to overshoot the field and strike a fence.

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