Near collision involving a Piper Aircraft Corp PA-28-151, VH-FZV and The Boeing Company 727-277, VH-ANF, 8 km NE of Avalon, VIC on 24 March 1996

The pilot of VH-FZV contacted Avalon Tower, reporting his position as five miles north-east and requesting an airways clearance. This position placed the aircraft inside the control zone and a clearance had not been issued. VH-ANF, operating in the Avalon circuit, had just departed from runway 36 and was turning onto a right crosswind when the controller advised the crew of the reported position of VH-FZV. In response the crew of VH-ANF said they had VH-FZV in sight and were taking avoiding action. Significant Factors The following factors were considered relevant to the development of the accident: 1 The pilot of VH-FZV did not contact Avalon Tower for a clearance before entering the control zone.