Investigation number
199600318
Occurrence date
State
New South Wales
Report release date
Report status
Final
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation status
Completed
Occurrence category
Accident

The pilot stated that he departed the Aircair base strip at Boggabilla at about 1415 EST after refuelling, and proceeded to a farm strip at "Eddlington" nine kms due east of North Star, to spray herrbicide. He approached the strip from the north-west and and turned for a straight in approach. The pilot said he had used the strip 2 days before and was familiar with it. The wind was from the west tending south-west at four to five knots, and he landed the aircraft "well to the north end of the strip". He stated that as he touched down the aircraft turned violently to the right through 180 degrees and proceeded backwards and to the right into the sorghum crop where it came to rest. The left wing was damaged and the rear fuselage was broken. The pilot said that on investigation he found that the right wing had struck a dirt bank concealed by long grass, and this caused the sudden loss of directional control.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Air Tractor Inc
Model
AT-401
Registration
VH-ODK
Sector
Piston
Departure point
Goondiwindi QLD
Destination
18km E North Star QLD
Damage
Substantial