Piper PA32-300, VH-MGQ, Mer Island (Murray Island Group) QLD, 21 June 1985

198503516

Summary

When the aircraft became low on approach, the pilot applied power to correct the approach angle. However this resulted in a higher than recommended airspeed and the aircraft touched down and bounced. Witness reports indicate that the final touchdown occurred between 155 and 180 metres after the threshold, however, positive wheel marks were not evident until 340 metres after the threshold. When the pilot realised that insufficient strip remained for the aircraft to be brought to a stop, she attempted to carry out a groundloop. The aircraft skidded sideways off the end of the strip and down a steep incline before coming to rest against a tree. The pilot had encountered several problems prior to the accident. The aircraft battery had gone flat twice causing delays to the passengers. The passengers had become irritated by the delays and vented their anger on the pilot. The pilot stated that she was concerned about starting the engine after the landing and about the time available to complete the schedule before returning the aircraft to the base that night. She also stated that because of her preoccupation with the above matters she had not planned the approach and landing.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198503516
Occurrence date 21/06/1985
Location Mer Island (Murray Island Group)
Report release date 31/10/1985
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 None

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Piper Aircraft Corp
Model PA-32
Registration VH-MGQ
Operation type Charter
Departure point Prince of Wales Is QLD
Destination Mer Island QLD
Damage Substantial