Runway excursion involving a Cessna A188B/A1, VH-UWH, 34 km south-west of Ravensthorpe (ALA), Western Australia, on 14 August 1997

The pilot was attempting the first take-off from a grass paddock on an agricultural operation. Take-off direction was towards the west with 700 m of ground roll available. The wind was variable, but mainly a gusting crosswind from the right at around 10 kt. The aircraft was below maximum weight with a full hopper load and about half fuel.

When it became evident that the aircraft would not lift off by the end of the available take-off area, the pilot rejected the take-off and attempted to stop in the paddock remaining.

The aircraft veered to the left, collided with a fence and ground-looped before coming to a stop.

The pilot reported that engine operation was normal, and he was unable to explain why the aircraft did not lift off in the distance available, which should have been adequate. He believed the changing wind strength and direction may have been a factor.