Investigation number
AO-2007-041
Occurrence date
Location
Adelaide Airport
State
South Australia
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation level
Systemic
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Turbulence/windshear/microburst
Occurrence class
Serious Incident
Highest injury level
None

On 29 August 2007, a SAAB Aircraft Company 340B-229 (SAAB) aircraft was being operated on a scheduled passenger service from Adelaide, SA to Mount Gambier. The aircraft departed from runway 05 soon after an Airbus A320-232 (Airbus) aircraft departed from the same runway. When the SAAB reached a height of 250 to 350 ft above ground level (AGL), the flight crew experienced abrupt, severe buffeting and an uncommanded roll to the left, followed by another roll to the right.

As a result of this occurrence, the aircraft operator advised that they reviewed their operating procedures relating to departures behind jet aircraft and will use the ATSB report as part of a safety promotion strategy directed at all company pilots. In addition, The Civil Aviation Safety Authority is reviewing the safety implications of this incident and is considering the development of a safety education program for flight crew and air traffic controllers.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Saab Aircraft Co.
Model
340
Registration
VH-ZLR
Serial number
340B-229
Operation type
Air Transport Low Capacity
Sector
Turboprop
Departure point
Adelaide, SA
Destination
Mount Gambier, SA
Damage
Nil