Investigation number
199303539
Occurrence date
State
New South Wales
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence type
Collision with terrain
Occurrence category
Accident

The aircraft was to carry out insecticide spraying operations at a rice farm. The pilot made an approach to the airstrip from the south, with a tail wind of about 3 kts. The pilot said that, shortly after touchdown, he observed cattle straying near the edge of the strip and elected to go-around. As the aircraft became airborne the right main landing gear struck an adjacent levee bank. The impact detached the gear leg which then struck the right horizontal stabilizer, detaching the elevator. The pilot said that, by remaining in ground effect, he was able to complete a right circuit and land the aircraft back on the strip. On touchdown, directional control was lost and the aircraft ground looped, colliding with large water pipes and associated equipment.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Piper Aircraft Corp
Model
PA-36-375
Registration
VH-AFE
Sector
Piston
Departure point
Farm 115 Coleambally NSW
Destination
Farm 598 Coleambally NSW
Damage
Destroyed