Investigation number
198602347
Occurrence date
Location
"Allawah" (24km NE Cootamundra)
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
Serious

The pilot was conducting spreading operations on a flat paddock, but about 800 metres from one boundary the ground rose sharply by about 200 feet. At the end of a run towards the rising ground a procedure turn was commenced. During the turn, the pilot realised that the aircraft was closer to the rising ground than intended. Despite corrective measures, the pilot was unable to prevent a collision with a tree. The aircraft then struck the ground and came to rest in a further clump of trees. Weather conditions at the time of the accident were overcast, with rain showers and a strong gusty wind. On the runs towards the rising terrain the aircraft was subjected to a substantial tailwind component and possible downdrafts. As the pilot commenced a procedure turn at the end of the last run, the aircraft had drifted further downwind than expected, leaving insufficient margin to complete the turn safely.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Cessna Aircraft Company
Model
188
Registration
VH-PLU
Operation type
Aerial Work
Departure point
"Redhill" NSW
Departure time
1100 approx
Destination
"Redhill" NSW
Damage
Destroyed