P-51D Mustang, D-FBBD and Douglas AD-4N Skyraider, F-AZDP

Summary:

The pilot of a P-51 Mustang was leading a ‘Vic’ (Vee) formation of three aircraft participating in an airshow at Duxford. On his left was a Douglas Skyraider and on his right was another P-51 Mustang. On a signal from the leader, the formation carried out a ‘break’ manoeuvre to the left. During the left turn the Skyraider and the leading Mustang collided. The Mustang pilot was forced to abandon his aircraft and descended by parachute to a safe landing; the Skyraider pilot was able to land his aircraft at Duxford.

The accident occurred after the Skyraider pilot had lost sight of his leader and continued to make a tighter turn than his leader’s aircraft, which had slowed down. This caused their respective flight paths to converge, resulting in the collision.

Download report:

P-51D Mustang D-FBBD and Douglas AD-4N Skyraider F-AZDP 02-12.pdf (875.96 kb)