Investigation number
197001262
Occurrence date
Location
Cassilis, naer Kerriwa
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Loss of control
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
Fatal

The aircraft had been engaged in spreading operations during the morning and after a meal break, the aircraft
was re-loaded and refuelled. At about 1500 hours the pilot began spreading superphosphate over selected
areas either side of a low ridge In gently undulating country. In fine and calm weather conditions the spreading
runs were made in a left hand pattern with a run in a north-easterly direction over one area and continuing in
the pattern for a run in a south-westerly direction over the other areas while gradually working upslope
towards the central ridge area. After making a run to the north-east the pilot commenced a turn to the left
to position the aircraft for a run to the south-west and it was then seen to dive steeply toward the ground
while dumping its load. The aircraft struck the ground in a right wing down attitude and came to rest about
105 feet from the Initial Impact point. An examination of the wreckage disclosed that the engine was under
power at the time of the impact, and that the flaps were extended, probably at the 40 degree position.