Cessna 172P, VH-BOF, Estrelita, Western Australia, on 24 April 1990

199000083

Summary

Circumstances:

With the wind from the right rear quarter at seven knots and 15 degrees of flap selected the pilot attempted a downhill take-off from a one-way 390 metre grass strip. The aircraft was about 100kg below maximum all up weight with the right fuel tank full and the left tank half full. The pilot reported that he flew the aircraft clear of the ground at an indicated airspeed of 50 knots after approximately two thirds of the strip length. Shortly after becoming airborne the stall warning sounded, and the aircraft yawed violently left. The aircraft collided with a fence before coming to a rest about 200 metres from the departure end of the strip. The pilot indicated that the aircraft became airborne at too low an airspeed and that this coupled with the fuel imbalance and the tail wind resulted in a loss of control.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 199000083
Occurrence date 24/04/1990
Location Estrelita
State Western Australia
Report release date 31/07/1990
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 Cessna Aircraft Company
Model 172
Registration VH-BOF
Serial number 17275469
Sector Piston
Operation type Private
Departure point Estrelita WA
Destination Jandakot WA
Damage Substantial