Investigation number
199402411
Occurrence date
State
Western Australia
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Forced/precautionary landing
Occurrence class
Accident

The pilot reported that the aircraft was on descent when the engine lost power. He attempted to maintain altitude but was unable to do so. The pilot sighted what appeared to be a gravel strip of sufficient length in the middle of the mud flats he was overflying and he decided to fly an approach for a landing on that strip. On late final approach, the pilot observed some powerlines crossing the end of the strip. He manoeuvred to avoid the powerlines but was unable to line the aircraft up properly, again, with the strip before the touchdown. The aircraft ran off the side of the strip and the horizontal stabiliser collided with an earth bank. The reason for the power loss was not determined.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Cessna Aircraft Company
Model
182A
Registration
VH-RYS
Sector
Piston
Departure point
Theda Station WA
Destination
Derby WA
Damage
Substantial