Investigation number
199100515
Occurrence date
Location
Thistle Island
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence type
Loss of control
Occurrence category
Accident
Highest injury level
None
The pilot reported that just prior to touchdown he experienced a huge crosswind gust that blew him to the side of the strip. He attempted to regain directional control with rudder as the aircraft was then on the ground but he could not prevent the aircraft running into a sand windrow at the edge of the strip. On striking the windrow and then bushes, the left maingear leg was torn off followed by the other gear legs. The engine was also reportedly detached from the nose of the aircraft.
Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Piper Aircraft Corp
Model
PA-32
Registration
VH-STS
Serial number
32-7440171
Operation type
Private
Departure point
Parafield SA
Departure time
N/K
Destination
Thistle Island SA
Damage
Substantial