Loss of control Meta Sokol L40, VH-DUT, Mundubbera Qld, 5 October 1969
Summary
While cruising in level flight the engine, without warning, commenced to vibrate severely. Engine instrumentation remained normal and a magneto check was satisfactory. The vibration increased rapidly to such a degree that the pilot had no alternative but to close the throttle fully and carry out a forced landing. The aircraft was over very rough terrain and the only field available was 1,580 feet in length with trees to 70 feet high at one end and to 20 feet high at the other. The approach was made towards the taller timber, with the wheels down and half flap in a cross wind of about 10 knots from the left. After touching down the pilot realized that the aircraft would overrun the available area and he immediately initiated a turn to the right. Because of the speed and the rough surface, the aircraft skidded sideways and the undercarriage collapsed. The aircraft performance chart indicates that an actual distance of 1,740 feet is required to stop the aircraft from a height of 50 feet when using full flap under the conditions existing at the time of the landing.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 196900026 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 05/10/1969 |
| Location | 22 miles SW Mundubbera |
| Report release date | 04/02/1971 |
| 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 | Czechoslovak Automobile & A/C |
|---|---|
| Model | L40 |
| Registration | VH-DUT |
| Operation type | Private |
| Departure point | Roma |
| Destination | Maryborough |
| Damage | Substantial |