Single-engine aircraft crash during airshow in Cornwall

1 fatality • Culdrose AFB, United Kingdom • Flight

A solo pilot was killed when their aircraft struck the ground while performing maneuvers at an airshow in Cornwall.

What happened

During an aerial display at RAF Culdrose in Cornwall, a single-engine aircraft crashed while participating in an airshow. The pilot, who was the only person on board the aircraft, was executing a 360-degree turn at a low altitude when the incident occurred. During the maneuver, one of the wings made contact with the terrain, leading to the subsequent crash.

As a result of the impact, the pilot sustained fatal injuries and was killed. There were no other occupants or passengers on the aircraft at the time of the accident.

Findings

Preliminary details indicate that the accident occurred during the low-altitude flight phase while performing a turning maneuver. The primary factor in the loss of control was wing ground contact during the completion of the 360-degree turn.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground during a low-altitude turn at an airshow.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1983-07-27 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Culdrose AFB, United Kingdom?

A solo pilot was killed when their aircraft struck the ground while performing maneuvers at an airshow in Cornwall.

Were there any fatalities in the 1983-07-27 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1983-07-27 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration XP811, operated by British Army Air Corps, at Culdrose AFB, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground during a low-altitude turn at an airshow.

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