Runway excursion involving a Piper PA-28-151, VH-CEP, Shepparton, Victoria, on 7 August 1994

199402152

Summary

The pilot was taking his friends for a local flight. He commenced a take-off on runway 09 which has a gravel surface and is 423 metres long. When about two thirds of the way down the runway, the pilot realised the aircraft would probably overrun the end of the runway and collide with the boundary fence. He attempted to brake but realised it was too late, so he then attempted to fly the aircraft over the fence for a landing straight ahead in an adjoining paddock. However, the aircraft collided with the fence. After the accident, the pilot realised he had attempted to take off with a 15-knot tailwind. He believed that he read the windsock back to front.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number 199402152
Occurrence date 07/08/1994
Location Shepparton
State Victoria
Report release date 30/08/1994
Report status Final
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status Completed
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Runway excursion
Occurrence class Accident

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Piper Aircraft Corp
Model PA-28-151
Registration VH-CEP
Sector Piston
Operation type Private
Departure point Shepparton VIC
Destination Shepparton VIC
Damage Substantial