Cessna A188B-A1, VH-KZB, "Wilgabar" 15 km east-north-east of Walgett, New South Wales, on 26 May 1989

Circumstances:

The aircraft was engaged in spraying a large paddock. The weather was fine with a light wind. On the third run of the fifth load, the markers were positioned in such a way that there was a tree located directly on the intended swath run. A second tree lay behind, and to the right, of the first tree. The pilot estimated he could carry out a turn and pass between the two trees, to enable the spray pattern to be kept reasonably uniform. The pilot misjudged the manoeuvre and overshot the turn, resulting in the right wing of the aircraft striking a branch protruding from the second tree. About half a metre was lost from the outboard section of the right wing. The right aileron was bent and remained attached to the aircraft solely by the inboard hinge. The right spray boom was ruptured, allowing chemical to escape. Partial control was maintained, and the pilot made an emergency landing, without further damage, on an adjoining paddock. This accident was not the subject of an on-site investigation. The report is based on information provided by the pilot.

Significant Factors:

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

1. The pilot made an improper in-flight decision in attempting to manoeuvre the aircraft between the trees.
2. The pilot misjudged a turn in a confined area.