Horsa DG604 at Sherburn in Elmet airfield.

On 4th February 1943 this prototype Horsa was flown on a test flight. At the time of this incident the general conditions of the airfield at Sherburn in Elmet was poor so, as the glider would need to be moved after landing, and in order to not block other aircraft from landing, the pilot made an approach to land at the edge of the available area. At 16.30hrs he landed but a strong cross wind was blowing and also the pilot struggled with visibility owing to the sun being in his eyes. The approach was misjudged and the glider overshot. It struck mound of earth near the perimeter track and narrowly missed several bystanders. The pilot received injuries.

Pilot - P/O John Michael Cronin RAAF (407269). Injured, slight concussion.

Ground Observer - Ass.III Mr D J Wilcock.

Rigger - LAC Quinn RAFVR (928856).

Rigger - ACW2 Castle (433918).