Investigation number
199702587
Occurrence date
Location
34 km south-west of Ravensthorpe (ALA)
State
Western Australia
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Runway excursion
Occurrence class
Accident

The pilot was attempting the first take-off from a grass paddock on an agricultural operation. Take-off direction was towards the west with 700 m of ground roll available. The wind was variable, but mainly a gusting crosswind from the right at around 10 kt. The aircraft was below maximum weight with a full hopper load and about half fuel.

When it became evident that the aircraft would not lift off by the end of the available take-off area, the pilot rejected the take-off and attempted to stop in the paddock remaining.

The aircraft veered to the left, collided with a fence and ground-looped before coming to a stop.

The pilot reported that engine operation was normal, and he was unable to explain why the aircraft did not lift off in the distance available, which should have been adequate. He believed the changing wind strength and direction may have been a factor.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Cessna Aircraft Company
Model
A188B/A1
Registration
VH-UWH
Operation type
Aerial Work
Sector
Piston
Departure point
34 km SW Ravensthorpe WA
Destination
34 km SW Ravensthorpe WA
Damage
Substantial