Investigation number
198401400
Occurrence date
Location
Cooma
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Collision with terrain
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
Fatal

After completing an instrument flight at night, the pilot reported his arrival in the circuit area of the destination aerodrome. The aircraft did not land and a search was commenced. The burnt out wreckage was located the following morning. A detailed techical examination of the wreckage did not reveal any evidence of a defect or malfunction which might have contributed to the accident. operation, the pilot did not hold an Instrument Rating. Weather conditions at the destination were suitable for visual operations, but it was a very dark night with no ground lighting other than the runway lights. There was a strong crosswind in the landing direction and moderate turbulence in the area. The post-mortem examination of the pilot indicated a significant level of blood alcohol concentration. It was likely that the pilot lost control of the aircraft while manoeuvring to land in difficult conditions.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Cessna Aircraft Company
Model
182
Registration
VH-CKJ
Operation type
Private
Departure point
Bankstown NSW
Departure time
1738
Destination
Cooma NSW
Damage
Destroyed