Investigation number
199402064
Occurrence date
State
Victoria
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Aviation occurrence type
Runway excursion
Occurrence category
Accident

The purpose of the flight was dual training for a private pilot on the aircraft type. On arrival overhead the aerodrome the wind was assessed as a north-westerly at 10 - 15 knots. The pilot joined the circuit for runway 35. The instructor reported that the approach was normal other than being slightly high but this was corrected by the pilot. Touchdown was reported to be on the main wheels first at approximately 65 - 70 knots. As the nose contacted the ground, the aircraft began to veer substantially to the left. The instructor took control using right rudder but with no effect. The aircraft swerved off the runway and the nosegear collapsed. A post accident inspection showed scrub marks on the nosegear and left maingear tyres consistent with left yaw and right rudder application. The nosegear trunnion had failed in sideways overload. A post accident inspection of the aircraft did not reveal any mechanical defects that may have led to the accident.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Piper Aircraft Corp
Model
PA-46-310P
Registration
VH-LRJ
Sector
Piston
Departure point
Essendon VIC
Destination
Bendigo VIC
Damage
Substantial