No fatalities

Three-engine aircraft veers off runway during demonstration at Lydda Airport (VQ-PAF)

Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion, IsraelLanding (descent or approach)

On January 13, 1939, a Fokker F18 (registration VQ-PAF) operated by Commercial Aviation Company - Palestine was involved in an aviation accident near Tel Aviv-Ben Gurion, Israel during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-04Data APIEditorial standards

A three-engine aircraft went out of control upon landing at Lydda Airport while performing a demonstration flight for a new company. The plane veered off the runway and was damaged beyond repair, though both occupants were uninjured.

What happened

The incident occurred during a demonstration flight conducted at Lydda Airport. The crew was participating in this event to celebrate the establishment of their new aviation company. As the aircraft touched down on the runway, it lost control immediately after landing. The plane veered off the paved surface and eventually came to a stop outside the designated area.

The accident resulted in significant structural damage to the airframe, rendering the aircraft damaged beyond repair. Fortunately, both individuals on board sustained no injuries during the event. The flight was being operated by two pilots who were celebrating the launch of their enterprise.