Aviation safety investigations & reports
Cessna 210-N, VH-XAG, Lake Eyre North, 53 km north-west Muloorina station SA, 29 July 1990
199000014

Summary
The aircraft was conducting a scenic flight over an area of Lake Eyre North, where the surface of the lake is 30-40 feet below sea level. Weather conditions were fine. High cloud and calm conditions resulted in a glassy lake surface with diminished horizon definition. Passengers on the flight reported that the pilot had mentioned the possibility of flying below sea level, and later when approaching the lake he remarked that it would be "tricky" without an horizon. He gave no indication that the aircraft was experiencing any difficulties which would affect its ability to maintain flight. The aircraft contacted the lake in a near level attitude, and in cruise configuration. The nearest landfall was twelve kilometres distant, and after several hours the passengers were reached and assisted by a rescue party. Rescue attempts by helicopters were abandoned when unable to safely hover due to the illusory effects created by the glassy surface. The passengers had not been provided with the required flotation safety equipment for this particular flight.
General details
Date: | 29 July 1990 | Investigation status: | Completed | ||
Time: | 1050 | ||||
Location (show map): | Lake Eyre North, 53 km north-west Muloorina station | ||||
State: | South Australia | Occurrence type: | Collision with terrain | ||
Release date: | 17 September 1991 | Occurrence category: | Accident | ||
Report status: | Final | Highest injury level: | None |
Aircraft details
Aircraft manufacturer | Cessna Aircraft Company | |
---|---|---|
Aircraft model | 210 | |
Aircraft registration | VH-XAG | |
Serial number | 21063456 | |
Type of operation | Charter | |
Damage to aircraft | Substantial | |
Departure point | Innamincka SA | |
Departure time | 0908 | |
Destination | William Creek SA |