Stinson Model A accident at Redesdale, Australia, 31 Jan 1945 (VH-UYY)
On January 31, 1945, a Stinson Model A (registration VH-UYY) operated by Australian National Airways - ANA was involved in an aviation accident near Redesdale, Australia in flight. 10 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It appears that the physical loss of the port wing was caused by a structural failure due to the presence of fatigue cracks. Following this accident, it was decreed that all aircraft should henceforth be x-rayed for signs of cracks and structural weaknesses. 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.
Probable cause
It appears that the physical loss of the port wing was caused by a structural failure due to the presence of fatigue cracks. Following this accident, it was decreed that all aircraft should henceforth be x-rayed for signs of cracks and structural weaknesses. The presence of turbulence and strong winds at the time of the accident was considered as a contributory factor.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
Enroute, the outer port wing broke off. The three engine aircraft christened 'Tokana' dove into the ground and crashed near Redesdale, killing all 10 occupants. Crew: Alan Murn, pilot, Orville Openshaw, copilot.
Probable cause (official findings): It appears that the physical loss of the port wing was caused by a structural failure due to the presence of fatigue cracks. Following this accident, it was decreed that all aircraft should henceforth be x-rayed for signs of cracks and structural weaknesses. The presence of turbulence and strong winds at the time of the accident was considered as a contributory factor.