Investigation number
199001972
Occurrence date
Location
18km SW Moree
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
None

The pilot had been carrying out a low-level survey of cotton fields en-route to Moree. At the completion of the survey as the aircraft was climbing through a height of 700 feet the engine suffered a sudden and complete loss of power. All attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful and the pilot elected to force land the aircraft on a local strip. During the approach he realised the aircraft would not be able to clear trees on the approach path. He then turned the aircraft through about 60 degrees to the left and landed in a clearing. During the landing roll the left mainwheel struck a log resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft. The pilot advised that prior to the flight he had visually assessed the fuel contents as sufficient. Due to the position of the aircraft after the accident it was not possible to determine the amount of fuel remaining. A subsequent examination of the aircraft was unable to determine the reason for the loss of power.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Cessna Aircraft Company
Model
180
Registration
VH-SAA
Serial number
18053022
Operation type
Private
Departure point
"Telleraga Station" (46km SW Moree) NSW
Departure time
830
Destination
Moree NSW
Damage
Substantial