Rockwell 114, VH-DDY, Sea Lake VIC, 20 January 1986

198601400

Summary

Shortly after take-off the pilot's door opened. The passenger became very agitated and the pilot elected to carry out a low level circuit and landing. The passenger's condition deteriorated to the extent where the pilot was experiencing difficulty in concentrating on the approach. The aircraft touched down in a paddock 22 metres short of the aerodrome boundary fence, ran through the fence and came to rest near the strip threshold. Atmospheric conditions at the time were conducive to the formation of downdrafts and willy-willies. It was possible that the aircraft was affected by such a disturbance at a time when the pilot was distracted by his passenger's condition.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198601400
Occurrence date 20/01/1986
Location Sea Lake
Report release date 07/04/1986
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level None

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Rockwell International
Model 114
Registration VH-DDY
Operation type Private
Departure point Sea Lake VIC
Destination Essendon VIC
Damage Substantial