| Occurrence Briefs are concise reports that detail the facts surrounding a transport safety occurrence, as received in the initial notification and any follow-up enquiries. They provide an opportunity to share safety messages in the absence of an investigation. |
What happened
On 11 September 2018 at approximately 1400 Eastern Standard Time, a Mooney Aircraft Corp, M20C, was on final approach into Bankstown, New South Wales, after completing a private flight.
The pilot of the M20C has lowered the aircraft’s undercarriage whilst on the downwind leg of the circuit in preparation for landing. The pilot reported not feeling confident about the 1,500 ft circuit height they were established in and raised the undercarriage to conduct a go-around[1].
ATC observed the landing gear being raised and instructed the pilot to conduct a go-around prior to the pilot being able to communicate their intentions.
The flight proceeded without further incident.
Safety message
If a pilot is not completely satisfied that all the requirements are in place for a safe landing, performing a go-around is a way to ensure safety is not compromised.
The ATSB news article, Have an early decision point for an early and proper go-around has more information about the importance of performing an early go-around when a safe landing is in doubt.
About this report
Decisions regarding whether to conduct an investigation, and the scope of an investigation, are based on many factors, including the level of safety benefit likely to be obtained from an investigation. For this occurrence, no investigation has been conducted and the ATSB did not verify the accuracy of the information. A brief description has been written using information supplied in the notification and any follow-up information in order to produce a short summary report, and allow for greater industry awareness of potential safety issues and possible safety actions.
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