Investigation number
198701456
Occurrence date
Location
Moorabbin Airport
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
None

In the latter stage of the landing roll the aircraft encountered a strong gust of wind from the right. The aircraft swung suddenly to the right and the pilot was unable to maintain directional control. The left maingear leg bent and the airframe distorted, allowing the left door to become dislodged. The aircraft came to rest on the runway, after having groundlooped through 130 degrees. Before landing the pilot had carefully monitored the Aerodrome Terminal Information. He was fully aware of the possibility of occasional wind gusts resulting in a maximum crosswind component of 15 knots, which is 2 knots above the maximum limitation for the aircraft. Also he was prepared to conduct a go-around should he have encountered any problems during the approach and flare during the touch down. It is also probable that the pilot relaxed his concentration too early during the landing roll, in anticipation of completing the day's flight.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Cessna Aircraft Company
Model
180
Registration
VH-MPW
Serial number
32636
Operation type
Private
Departure point
Albury NSW
Departure time
1340
Destination
Moorabbin Airport VIC
Damage
Substantial