Aircraft loss during naval exercise near Gibraltar

2 fatalities • Gibraltar, United Kingdom • Flight

An aircraft disappeared into the sea following a loss of control during a joint training operation with two destroyers.

What happened

During a scheduled military training mission involving two destroyers, an aircraft experienced a sudden loss of control. The incident occurred while the crew was participating in naval exercises near the waters off Gibraltar. Following the loss of maneuverability, the plane impacted the ocean surface and sank.

Search and rescue operations following the crash resulted in the recovery of two crew members. Tragically, the incident also led to two fatalities due to drowning.

Findings

  • The aircraft was engaged in an exercise alongside two naval destroyers at the time of the accident.
  • The primary factor leading to the crash was a sudden loss of control during flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft crashed into the sea after the crew lost control of the plane during a naval exercise.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1963-03-18 Grumman S-2 Tracker accident near Gibraltar, United Kingdom?

An aircraft disappeared into the sea following a loss of control during a joint training operation with two destroyers.

Were there any fatalities in the 1963-03-18 Grumman S-2 Tracker accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1963-03-18 involved a Grumman S-2 Tracker, registration 152, operated by Royal Netherlands Navy - Marineluchtvaartdienst (MLD), at Gibraltar, United Kingdom.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft crashed into the sea after the crew lost control of the plane during a naval exercise.

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