Collision with terrain involving a Piper PA-36-375, VH-AFE, 20 km south of Coleambally, New South Wales, on 22 October 1993

199303539

Summary

The aircraft was to carry out insecticide spraying operations at a rice farm. The pilot made an approach to the airstrip from the south, with a tail wind of about 3 kts. The pilot said that, shortly after touchdown, he observed cattle straying near the edge of the strip and elected to go-around. As the aircraft became airborne the right main landing gear struck an adjacent levee bank. The impact detached the gear leg which then struck the right horizontal stabilizer, detaching the elevator. The pilot said that, by remaining in ground effect, he was able to complete a right circuit and land the aircraft back on the strip. On touchdown, directional control was lost and the aircraft ground looped, colliding with large water pipes and associated equipment.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 199303539
Occurrence date 22/10/1993
Location 20 km south of Coleambally
State New South Wales
Report release date 05/04/1994
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Collision with terrain, Loss of control
Occurrence class Accident

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Piper Aircraft Corp
Model PA-36-375
Registration VH-AFE
Sector Piston
Operation type Aerial Work
Departure point Farm 115 Coleambally NSW
Destination Farm 598 Coleambally NSW
Damage Destroyed