No fatalities

Solo training flight accident at RAF Limavady due to tire burst (P4835)

Limavady AFB, United KingdomTakeoff (climb)

On May 23, 1942, a Handley Page H.P.52 Hampden (registration P4835) operated by Royal Air Force - RAF was involved in an aviation accident near Limavady AFB, United Kingdom during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The right tire burst upon takeoff, causing the right main gear to collapse. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-05Data APIEditorial standards

A solo pilot experienced a right main gear tire burst and subsequent undercarriage collapse during a takeoff roll at RAF Limavady, escaping without injury.

What happened

The incident occurred during a local solo training flight operated from RAF Limavady. While the aircraft was in the takeoff roll phase, the tire on the right main landing gear failed. This mechanical failure caused the airplane to swing along the runway surface. Following this deviation, the right undercarriage structure collapsed under the weight of the airframe. The pilot managed to escape the wreckage and sustained no injuries.

Findings

Official investigations determined that the primary event was the rupture of the right tire during the takeoff sequence. This specific failure directly led to the structural collapse of the right main gear, resulting in the loss of control on the ground.

Probable cause

The right tire burst upon takeoff, causing the right main gear to collapse.