Cessna 180 G, VH-MJC, Eagle Creek (15 km South of Tenterfield) NSW, 6 August 1987

198702417

Summary

The aircraft had been parked in the open and was exposed to a heavy frost. The pilot and his son attempted to clear ice accumulations from the top surfaces of the aerofoils by throwing warm water over them. Some 20-25 minutes elasped between the ice clearing operation and the takeoff attempt, during which time the aircraft was taxied to the airstrip and a second passenger emplaned. No further checks were made for new accumulations of ice. Following lift off, the aircraft commenced an uncommanded turn to the right. By the use of full left aileron and left rudder, the pilot was able to regain some directional control, but could not prevent the aircraft from striking boulders on the side of the strip. During the subsequent ground slide, the fuel system was broached and the aircraft was destroyed in the resulting fire. Post crash inspection of the aircraft revealed that the rudder had been fouling the elevator control, thereby preventing adequate control travel, for continued flight under the existing conditions.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198702417
Occurrence date 06/08/1987
Location Eagle Creek (15 km South of Tenterfield)
Report release date 20/11/1987
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 Minor

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Cessna Aircraft Company
Model 180
Registration VH-MJC
Serial number 18051365
Operation type Private
Departure point Eagle Creek NSW
Destination Surfers Gardens QLD
Damage Destroyed