Investigation number
198803494
Occurrence date
Location
Forest Vale Station (60km N Mitchell)
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence category
Loss of control
Occurrence class
Accident
Highest injury level
None

The pilot stated that when he returned to land after a spreading operation he noticed a dust devil about half way along the strip. The chief pilot, who was on the ground near the southern end of the strip, also noticed the dust devil, and warned the pilot on the company radio. The pilot circled near the northern end of the strip until the dust devil moved off the strip to the west and into the trees. A normal approach and landing was then made from the north. During the landing roll the pilot noticed that the dust devil had reappeared from the trees, and was moving directly into his landing path. Maximum braking was applied, but the aircraft encountered the dust devil and became uncontrollable in the turbulence. The propeller struck the ground and the aircraft slid sideways to the left for forty metres. During the slide, the left wheel axle bolts sheared and the left wing struck the ground.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Cessna Aircraft Company
Model
188
Registration
VH-IEQ
Serial number
18801652
Operation type
Aerial Work
Departure point
Forest Vale Station QLD
Departure time
1350
Destination
Forest Vale Station QLD
Damage
Substantial