Ryan ST-M, VH-CXR, Wyndham WA, 20 July 1985

198500139

Summary

The pilot had been requested to carry out an aerobatic display over a fair being conducted at the local racecourse. During the display three spins were completed, with each being entered at about 1500 feet agl and recovery effected by 500 feet agl. The display appeared to be finished when the pilot made a low pass from behind the crowd at approximately 100 feet agl and then climbed out for what looked initially like a normal entry to the circuit at nearby Wyndham Airport. However, as the aircraft approached 1000 feet agl it was observed to carry out a spin entry similar to that used on the three previous spins. A spin to the left started and four turns were completed before recovery appeared to commence at about 200 feet agl. The aircraft struck the ground before recovery was complete, still yawing to the left and with the nose attitude about 24 degrees below that required for level flight. Whether or not the entry to the final spin was delibrate could not determined. The pilot was not approved to carry out aerobatic manoeuvres below 3000 feet agl, however, reports indicate that he had previously conducted low level aerobatic displays.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198500139
Occurrence date 20/07/1985
Location Wyndham
Report release date 01/04/1986
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Loss of control
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level Fatal

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Ryan Aeronautical Corp
Model ST
Registration VH-CXR
Operation type Private
Departure point Wyndham WA
Destination Wyndham WA
Damage Substantial