Summary
Circumstances:
The pilot was conducting spraying operations in a large wheat paddock. The aircraft was being flown about two metres above the crop and the pilot intended to pass to the right of a large tree near the end of the particular swath run. The aircraft suddenly swung violently to the left as the wheels entered the crop. By the time the pilot managed to pull the aircraft clear, it was heading for the tree. While attempting to manoeuvre the aircraft, the pilot was unable to prevent it from striking the ground.
Significant Factors:
The following factors were considered relevant to the development of the accident:
1. Contact with the crop on spray run, reasons undetermined.
2. Aircraft struck the ground during pilot attempt to avoid a tree.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 198901557 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 17/10/1989 |
| Location | 3 km west of Elmore |
| State | Victoria |
| Report release date | 29/08/1990 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Collision with terrain |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Rockwell International |
|---|---|
| Model | S-2R |
| Registration | VH-DQA |
| Serial number | 1833R |
| Sector | Piston |
| Operation type | Aerial Work |
| Departure point | Elmore VIC |
| Destination | Elmore VIC |
| Damage | Substantial |