On November 20, 1936, a Spartan Cruiser (registration G-ADEM) operated by Northern & Scottish Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Blackpool, United Kingdom during takeoff. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The accident was attributed to the pilot's spatial disorientation following a takeoff in thick fog with near-zero visibility, causing the aircraft to deviate from its flight path and strike a hangar. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A three-engine aircraft struck a hangar and burst into flames while climbing out of Blackpool-Stanley Park Airport in thick fog, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.
What happened
The incident occurred shortly after the aircraft departed Blackpool-Stanley Park Airport. While in the climb phase following takeoff, the three-engine aircraft deviated from its intended flight path and collided with a hangar structure. The impact caused the airframe to break apart and immediately catch fire. Both individuals on board were killed in the accident.
Findings
Official investigations indicated that the takeoff was executed during conditions of thick fog, which resulted in near-zero visibility for the pilot. It is concluded that after rotation, the aircraft became off course, likely due to the pilot experiencing spatial disorientation caused by the limited visual references.
Probable cause
The accident was attributed to the pilot's spatial disorientation following a takeoff in thick fog with near-zero visibility, causing the aircraft to deviate from its flight path and strike a hangar.
What happened in the 20 Nov 1936 Spartan Cruiser accident near Blackpool, United Kingdom?
A three-engine aircraft struck a hangar and burst into flames while climbing out of Blackpool-Stanley Park Airport in thick fog, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.
Were there any fatalities in the 20 Nov 1936 Spartan Cruiser accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 Nov 1936 involved a Spartan Cruiser, registration G-ADEM, operated by Northern & Scottish Airways, at Blackpool, United Kingdom.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The accident was attributed to the pilot's spatial disorientation following a takeoff in thick fog with near-zero visibility, causing the aircraft to deviate from its flight path and strike a hangar.
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