Piper PA34-200T, VH-STT, Latrobe Valley VIC, 14 January 1987

198701417

Summary

The pilot was approaching to land in what he believed were light wind conditions. As he crossed the threshold he realised that there was a tailwind component, but elected to continue the approach. Touchdown occurred with about 415 metres of the strip remaining. During the landing roll the pilot became concerned that the aircraft would not stop before the boundary fence, and a ground loop was attempted. The left maingear collapsed as the aircraft came to rest 103 metres from the end of the runway. The landing attempt had been made in 12 to 15 knot downwind conditions. The pilot had assessed the wind direction from the smoke emitted by nearby power stations. He had not noticed the direction indicated by the two windsocks at the aerodrome. It was likely that the pilot was mentally fatigued following a long and difficult day at his workplace, and he may have been pre-occupied with business matters which were related to the reason for the particular flight.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 198701417
Occurrence date 14/01/1987
Location Latrobe Valley
Report release date 12/05/1987
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 Piper Aircraft Corp
Model PA-34
Registration VH-STT
Operation type Business
Departure point Tyabb VIC
Destination Latrobe Valley VIC
Damage Substantial