Investigation number
199601477
Occurrence date
State
New South Wales
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence type
Loss of control
Occurrence category
Accident

The flight was planned from Maroochydore to Griffith with a refuelling stop at Nyngan. On arrival at Nyngan the refuelling agent could not be contacted so the pilot diverted to Dubbo to refuel. Prior to departure from Dubbo, the pilot estimated that he would arrive at Griffith at last light. He was not night VFR rated. The aircraft ultimately arrived at Griffith at about last light. Conditions were dark and runway lights were required for landing. The pilot made several circuits of the aerodome while he attempted to turn on the pilot activated aerodrome lighting (PAL) system. The pilot reported that he made two attempts to turn on the PAL but without success. He then made an attempt to land without the aid of runway lighting. After touchdown he realised he had landed well beyond the threshold and would not be able to stop by the end of the runway. He applied power and attempted to go around but the aircraft stalled and hit the ground in a left wing low attitude after which it cartwheeled to a stop. Although the aircraft was substantially damaged and there was still a significant amount of fuel in the tanks, there was no post impact fire.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Mooney Aircraft Corp
Model
M20J
Registration
VH-KLY
Sector
Piston
Departure point
Dubbo NSW
Destination
Griffith NSW
Damage
Substantial