De Havilland DH 82A, VH-BDX, Bond Springs (22 km North Alice Springs NT), 30 January 1986

198600687

Summary

Analysis of a video recording taken of the take-off run by the occupant of the front seat, indicated that the aircraft became airborne after a ground roll of about 18 seconds. The aircraft then continued in the direction of takeoff for a further 11 seconds at what appeared to be near to takeoff speed. The aircraft did not climb away. It was not clear from the recording whether or not the aircraft was airborne throughout the 11 seconds. At the end of this time however, the aircraft was on the ground and it then veered sharply to the right. At the time the prevailing wind was a left quartering crosswind. The pilot was unable to regain directional control and the aircraft ran off the side of the strip and struck an embankment before coming to rest inverted. No defect was found with the engine or flight controls and the aircraft weight and centre of gravity were within the required limits. The aircraft had been fitted with a braking system and had recorded 27 hours in service since the modification. An examination of the brake shoes revealed an excessive rate of wear to the left brake shoes, and a cable within the braking system was found to be incorrectly adjusted. However, whether these defects contributed to the development of the accident could not be established. The reason for the loss of directional control was not determined.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198600687
Occurrence date 30/01/1986
Location Bond Springs (22 km North Alice Springs NT)
Report release date 22/09/1986
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 None

Aircraft details

Manufacturer de Havilland Aircraft
Model DH-82
Registration VH-BDX
Operation type Private
Departure point Bond Springs NT
Destination Alice Springs NT
Damage Substantial