Nomad aircraft N24-10 was authorised to carry out Flight 128 on 6 August 1976 at Avalon, Victoria. In the course of this flight, the aircraft crashed and was destroyed. The accident investigation team charged with the task of investigating all aspects of the accident was divided into various groups and subgroups, the Flutter Subgroup being part of the Engineering Group. The terms of reference of the Flutter Subgroup were 'to investigate the flutter characteristics of the aircraft in its accident configuration'. This is the report of the subgroup to the Engineering Group Leader and is written in accordance with the stated terms of reference.

Pilot in command did not ensure that a positive system of transfer of control of the aircraft was employed.

Pilot allowed glider to descend out to sea. Stalled at low speed, diced steeply into sea.

Pilot exceeded stress limit of aircraft in turbulent conditions.

During towed flight, particularly when the angle between the tow line jand the kite reaches, large values, kites can be exposed to very high load situations, sufficient tp result in structural failure. A commonly used device which exerts forces to hold the kite at a lower angle with respect to the tow line, is the climb restricting 'V bridle. Such a device was not used on this occasion. Recommended practice is for boat driver activities to be confined to steering while the observer is provided with a throttle control in a position which permits the Berson to face rearwards and be able to also operate the tow release. Should the observer detect a hazardous tow situation is developing he is able to assist by carefully reducing boat speed. The observer did not have access to a throttle control on this occasion.

Aircraft on test flight after maintenance. Port engine shut down after Take-off, reason unknown. Starboard engine flooded to produce full power due to blocked injector. Pilot attempted to return. Aircraft stalled, crashed inverted and burnt.

The pilot, who did not hold an instrument rating and was therefore restricted to flight under the Visual Flight Rules. Aircraft seen entering cloud then struck mountain.

Pilot delayed outlanding decision-low tight circuit, probably stalled, struck fence ground and water trough.

On spray run engine lost power starboard wing struck ground and the aircraft cartwheeled. Fire broke out on impact.

Aircraft hit power lines during go around from one way strip into rising terrain.