Loss of control involving Austflight U.L.A. Drifter A-503, 25-357, Tamrookum, Queensland

The purpose of the flight was to conduct an aerial inspection of a corn crop located approximately 1 km east of the airstrip. Witnesses reported seeing the aircraft in straight and level flight at a height of about 500 ft and hearing a change in the engine noise. A short time later, the right wing dropped, and the aircraft entered a steep, nose down, spiral descent which continued to ground impact.

Examination of the accident site showed that the aircraft had struck the ground while inverted and in a steep nose-down attitude while rotating to the right. The nature and extent of damage to the propeller indicated that the engine was developing significant power at impact. Inspection of the wreckage revealed no faults which might have contributed to the accident.

The evidence suggests that the aircraft probably stalled, causing the right wing to drop and a spiral dive to develop from which the pilot was unable to recover in the height available. The reason for the aircraft entering the manoeuvre was not determined.

Factors

1. The aircraft probably stalled, resulting in a spiral dive developing.

2. The pilot was unable to recover the aircraft to normal flight in the height available.