Cessna 188, VH-UAY, Padthaway, 46km NW of Naracoorte SA, 31 October 1985

198500668

Summary

The pilot was engaged in spraying an area of grape vines. On the final spray path the aircraft had to pass under a set of power lines. The pilot reported that as the aircraft approached the power lines, it was affected by an updraught. He pushed the control column forward but the propeller and fin mounted wire deflector struck the power lines. The aircraft descended and struck a post used to support the vines before it came to rest in the crop. The pilot was inexperienced in agricultural operations. The final spray run involved a difficult task in that several obstacles had to be negotiated. It is probable that the aircraft was affected by a willy willy and that the pilot was unable to fully regain control of the aircraft before it struck the crop.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198500668
Occurrence date 31/10/1985
Location Padthaway, 46km NW of Naracoorte
Report release date 14/03/1986
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Wirestrike
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level None

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Cessna Aircraft Company
Model 188
Registration VH-UAY
Operation type Aerial Work
Departure point Padthaway SA
Destination Padthaway SA
Damage Substantial