Investigation number
198602355
Occurrence date
Location
3 km NW Tomingley
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Animal strike
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
None

The pilot had been carrying out a solo cross-country training flight, when deteriorating lift forced him to make an outlanding. The approach to the paddock selected involved passing over a line of high trees. Severe sink was encountered and the pilot realised he would not clear the trees. He therefore applied full spoilers and attempted a landing short of the planned area. During the landing roll the glider collided with a flock of sheep, killing five of the animals on impact. The pilot was a Japanese national who was visiting the area. Before DEPARTURE he had advised the soaring club that he wished to undertake a local flight. As a result, he was not briefed on cross-country procedures and outlandings. When thermals were encountered after take-off, he had elected to conduct a longer flight. When the outlanding became necessary, the pilot had misjudged the strength of the wind and had continued downwind beyond the point where a successful approach to the selected paddock could be made.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Glasflugel
Model
206
Registration
VH-GSC
Operation type
Gliding
Departure point
Narromine NSW
Departure time
1300
Destination
Narromine NSW
Damage
Substantial