Collision with terrain involving a Piper PA-25-235, VH-FZZ, 17 km north of Camperdown, Victoria, on 31 October 1995

199503631

Summary

The pilot reported that he was spraying thistles on the eastern side of Mt Koang. The weather at the time was clear with a moderate easterly breeze blowing. Spray runs were made in a north south direction, starting at the base of the mount and progressing up the slope parallel to a ridge line at the top.

The pilot commenced the last run from the north, flying along the top of the ridge line. Approximately halfway along the ridge line the aircraft hit a wind gust. The pilot was unable to prevent the aircraft from hitting the ridge. The aircraft hit the ground heavily and was destroyed in a post impact fire. The pilot was wearing fire resistant overalls, gloves and a helmet. He received burns to his face which was the only exposed area of skin when the accident occurred.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 199503631
Occurrence date 31/10/1995
Location 17 km north of Camperdown
State Victoria
Report release date 08/11/1995
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 Minor

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Piper Aircraft Corp
Model PA-25-235
Registration VH-FZZ
Sector Piston
Operation type Aerial Work
Departure point Derrinallum Vic
Destination Derrinallum Vic
Damage Destroyed