I have been asked to carry out research into a flying boat crash in the Thames Estuary.
All I have to go on is a a very short note in a diary.
21st October 1947: Short Sunderland? crashed Thames Estuary crew killed.
I know its a long shot but anyone have any more info.
By: Old Fart - 19th July 2005 at 23:27
Thanks
By: Geoff K - 19th July 2005 at 18:48
From ‘Final Landings’
’21-Oct-47 DV976 Sunderland GR3 MAEE ‘off Southend’ 4 killed
The starboard inner engine failed in flight and was followed by a fire which spread rapidly, before the engine fell from its mounting. The pilot attempted an emergency landing but at high speed, probably because of control difficulties after the engine broke away. The aircraft landed in rough water and crashed. It is probable that the pilot was under considerable pressure as he was not supported by a second pilot on this sortie. Six of those on board; Flight Lieutenant S.P. Cunningham, Leading Aircraftmen I Hoare, and R.B. Reilley, Corporal F Thornton, Engineer II I.C. Thorn, and Aircraftman H.R. Jarvis were injured, but the pilot and three passengers were killed.
Flight Lieutenant William Austin Harvey
Leading Aircraftman John Joseph Ryan (32)
Aircraftman 2nd class Arthur Raymond Gurdin (18)
Leading Aircraftman Dennis Reginal Wright.’
Geoff.
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July 19, 2005 at 6:26 pm