Champion 7-KCAB (Citabria), VH-DAY, 5 km NE of Apollo Bay VIC, 31 March 1985

198501397

Summary

The pilot decided to carry out a low fly past along the strip to check the effect of the prevailing strong wind. After having flown along about a third of the strip he landed the aircraft. During the landing roll the wind lifted the left wing and the aircraft began to move off to the right of the strip. The right wheel struck a low dirt mound and was twisted rearward. The aircraft then ran through a fence before coming to rest. The particular strip is an agricultural ALA, with a length of 490 metres and restricted to one-way operations. The pilot was familiar with the strip, having landed there on numerous occasions. The first part of the strip was protected from the wind, and on encountering virtually calm conditions, the pilot had made a spur of the moment decision to land. Shortly after touchdown the aircraft had left the protected area and was subject to a strong and gusty wind.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198501397
Occurrence date 31/03/1985
Location 5 km NE of Apollo Bay
Report release date 22/01/1987
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Loss of control
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level None

Aircraft details

Manufacturer American Champion Aircraft Corp
Model 7
Registration VH-DAY
Operation type Private
Departure point Moorabbin VIC
Destination Apollo Bay VIC
Damage Substantial