Summary
The pilot reported that, on a ferry flight back to Hyden from Northam, following a .37 periodic maintenance inspection, he encountered fog ahead along track. As a precautionary measure, the pilot decided to land in a paddock to wait for the fog to clear. He made several passes over the paddock to ensure it was suitable before attempting to land. As the aircraft touched down, the right main wheel struck a rock, hidden in grass, causing the right oleo to collapse from overload.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 199702723 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 22/08/1997 |
| Location | 32 km east of York |
| State | Western Australia |
| Report release date | 11/11/1997 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Forced/precautionary landing |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Airparts NZ Ltd |
|---|---|
| Model | FU-24/A4 |
| Registration | VH-BBM |
| Sector | Piston |
| Operation type | General Aviation |
| Departure point | Northam WA |
| Destination | Hyden WA |
| Damage | Substantial |