Fletcher FU24/A4, VH-EOF, 25 Km South of St.Arnaud VIC, 25 February 1985

198501391

Summary

Shortly after take-off during a spreading operation the engine suddenly lost power. The pilot dumped the load and operated the fuel boost pump, however after a short burst of power the engine failed completely. The pilot was committed to a downwind landing and towards the end of the landing roll the aircraft ran into a gully and collided with tree stumps. The engine had failed from fuel exhaustion. The pilot was not aware of the amount of fuel added to the tanks at the previous refuelling and he had subsequently relied on the fuel gauge readings to assess the remaining endurance.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198501391
Occurrence date 25/02/1985
Location 25 Km South of St.Arnaud
Report release date 11/04/1985
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level None

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Airparts NZ Ltd
Model FU-24
Registration VH-EOF
Operation type Aerial Work
Departure point Stuart Mill VIC
Destination Stuart Mill VIC
Damage Substantial