VFR into IMC involving Piper PA-28RT-201T, VH-IWJ, 5 km north-west of Evans Head, New South Wales

Prior to commencing the Night VFR (Visual Flight Rules) flight, the pilot obtained a pre-flight briefing by facsimile.  This briefing included the appropriate weather forecast for the intended route.

After departing Coolangatta, the pilot reported to Brisbane Flight Service that he intended climbing to 7,500 ft and that he would remain outside controlled airspace. About 22 minutes later a single radio transmission was received by Brisbane Flight Service.  The transmission, by a male voice, said 'I'm doing cartwheels'.  This voice was different from the voice that made the initial transmission from VH-IWJ to Flight Service.

Witnesses in the Evans Head area observed the aircraft flying towards the north-west at an estimated altitude of 1,000 ft above the ground.  They reported that it was flying erratically before commencing a looping manoeuvre.  At the top of that manoeuvre the aircraft appeared to lose all airspeed, then dive vertically into the ground.

The aircraft was extensively damaged by impact forces.  Inspection of the wreckage did not reveal any pre-existing faults that may have contributed to the occurrence.

Post-mortem examination of the pilot did not provide evidence sufficient to determine whether he had suffered from any form of incapacitation.

The weather forecast obtained by the pilot indicated that showers were expected along the route and that some low cloud would be associated with the showers.  Provided the pilot remained clear of the showers a flight under VFR should have been possible.  There is extensive ground lighting in the area from Coolangatta to Ballina but after that the ground lighting reduces as the settlements become more widely spread.  The moon was located in the western sky, but most witnesses reported that it was dark at the time they observed the aircraft and that there was cloud in the area. Consequently, the pilot may have been deprived of a visual horizon from time to time.

The pilot was reported to have been in current flying practice, having last flown at night on 28 February 1993.  He had held a Night VFR rating since 25 September 1987.

The available evidence is consistent with the pilot having lost control of the aircraft and being unable to regain control before it impacted the ground.

SIGNIFICANT FACTORS

The factors leading to an apparent loss of control of the aircraft could not be positively determined.