Airparts FU24-950, VH-EMQ, Bald Rock 13 km south of Tenterfield, New South Wales, on 10 September 1989

Circumstances:

On arrival over the agricultural airstrip the pilot observed that there were cattle on the strip which prevented a landing. He made several low passes over the cattle which moved them from the approach end of the airstrip into trees adjacent to the dump site at the other end. The pilot was concerned that the cattle might wander back onto the airstrip and elected to make an approach to land as close to the threshold as possible. Touchdown occurred several metres short of the threshold and the right hand landing gear struck a rocky outcrop. The aircraft veered to the right leaving the airstrip and continued for approximately 150 metres before coming to a stop. Inspection by the pilot indicated that the right hand landing gear wheel assembly and components had suffered substantial damage and the right hand tyre was ruptured. This accident was not the subject of an on-site investigation.

Significant Factors:

The following factors were considered relevant to the development of the accident:

1. The pilot's attention was diverted by cattle on the airstrip.
2. The pilot misjudged distance and altitude during the approach.