Tiger Moth N9189 at Bellasize airfield.
On 18th May 1943 the pilot of this 4 E.F.T.S. aircraft was attempting to overshoot a landing at Bellasize but collided with Tiger Moth T7777 that was stationary on the ground. Both aircraft were badly damaged when the wreckage caught fire and as a result three airmen died.
Pilot (Instructor) - Sgt John James Cooper RAFVR (1214085), aged 20, of Alwoodley, Leeds. Buried Armley Cemetery, Leeds, West Yorkshire (Sec.F/Grave 871).
Pupil Pilot - LAC E Weir RAFVR (1020070). Minor injuries.
Tiger Moth N9189 was built to contract 778402/38 by De Havilland Ltd. at Hatfield and was delivered to 27 MU at Shawbury on 6th September 1939. On 9th January 1941 it was taken on charge by 4 E.F.T.S. at Brough. On 11th June 1941 it sustained unspecified damage in some form of flying accident but no details are yet known. Cat.R/FB damage is given but must have been Cat.R/FA. On 17th June 1941 it was transported by road to Taylorcraft Ltd. at Rearsby for a repair in works. On 23rd July 1941 the aircraft was returned to 4 E.F.T.S. at Brough. It remained at Brough for some time. As a result of the crash on 18th May 1943 Cat.E2/FA Burnt damage was the damage assessment and it was struck off charge on 24th May 1943.