Wittman W8 Tailwind, VH-SLA, Mt. Beauty VIC, 9 March 1985

198501393

Summary

Enroute to his planned destination the pilot flew around the Mt. Beauty area for several minutes. He had not previously landed at the strip and had not intended to on this occasion, however after watching other aircraft operating a decision to land was made. A go-around was made from the first approach as the aircraft was high on late final. Touchdown from the subsequent approach was made well into the strip and the aircraft bounced. A go-around was initiated but while turning to avoid trees the left wing struck the ground and the aircraft cartwheeled, coming to rest inverted. Witnesses reported that during the go-around the aircraft adopted a steep nose high attitude but did not climb. The turn left was initiated whilst the aircraft was in this attitude. No fault was subsequently found with the engine or associated systems. The pilot had probably established the aircraft in a steeper than normal attitude because of the presence of a hill adjacent to the strip.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198501393
Occurrence date 09/03/1985
Location Mt. Beauty
Report release date 08/07/1985
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Runway excursion
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level Minor

Aircraft details

Manufacturer S J Wittman
Model W-8
Registration VH-SLA
Operation type Private
Departure point Moorabbin VIC
Destination Mitta Mitta VIC
Damage Substantial