Investigation number
199803258
Occurrence date
Location
19 km E Rocky Gully
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 Air Tractor was being used to conduct aerial reconnaissance of a forestry area prior to spraying the trees. The north-easterly wind was gusting from about 15 kts and there was 8 OCTAS of low cloud with passing rain showers. The horizon was often obscured. The pilot reported that he encountered some turbulence during the flight.

On completion of the reconnaissance flight, the pilot decided to land towards the east-south-east. He reported that late in the landing approach, with full flap selected the aircraft unexpectedly rolled left. He was unable to correct the roll before the left landing gear struck the perimeter fence. The aircraft veered left and its left wing struck the chemical loader that was parked near the edge of the airstrip. The aircraft then cartwheeled before coming to rest inverted. The pilot and bystanders were unhurt but the aircraft was destroyed.

No deficiencies could be found with the aircraft that may have contributed to the accident.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Air Tractor Inc
Model
AT502
Registration
VH-SNA
Operation type
Aerial Work
Departure point
Rocky Gully, WA
Destination
Rocky Gully, WA
Damage
Destroyed