Occurrences

Date	Occurrence #	Location	State	Aircraft	Model	Engine	Model	Summary
25/5/2021	OCC2429	Ayr Aerodrome	QLD	Jabiru	J170C	Jabiru	22B	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The pilot was on approach and there was a faster aircraft beh...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The pilot was on approach and there was a faster aircraft behind the aircraft, also on final. The pilot felt pressured to expedite the approach and land quickly. As a result the approach was conducted at a faster than normal speed, on landing the nose wheel touched down first and the propeller struck the ground. The engine had stopped and the pilot allowed the aircraft to roll onto the grass on the edge of the sealed runway before stopping the aircraft to allow other aircraft to use the runway. The pilot indicated later they should not have allowed the faster aircraft behind them to change their normal approach process. The aircraft had a maintainer assessment for possible damage as a result of the propeller strike.
22/5/2021	OCC2427	Colac Aerodrome	VIC	Jabiru	J170D	Jabiru	2200B	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The flight was a students’ first solo under the supervision o...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The flight was a students’ first solo under the supervision of the Instructor from the ground. The student made a good landing however became overloaded and while braking inadvertently added power resulting in runway overrun into fence. The Instructor has conducted further remedial training with the student to prevent a recurrence.
19/5/2021	OCC2421	Nepean Dam - Cataract Dam	NSW	Jabiru	230	Jabiru	3300A	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The student was conducting an area solo within 25nm of Shellh...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The student was conducting an area solo within 25nm of Shellharbour airport. The student had several interactions with pilots at other airports prior to this incident. Initially the student was monitoring a local drop zone on COM1 and Sydney Centre (124.55) on COM2. The student heard ATC advise another aircraft of an aircraft at their 10 o'clock and concluded that their aircraft was the aircraft being referred to. They looked for the other aircraft but were unable to see it. The student then attempted to contact ATC but made an error in selecting the broadcast switch to COM2 - therefore made a broadcast to the drop zone or another local airport. The error was recognised within about a minute and ATC made several further calls to the other aircraft. As it appeared to the student that ATC could see them they continued to fly straight and level with no change in heading or course. The second aircraft passed above and in front of them shortly thereafter from their 2 o'clock to their 8 o'clock - they had perhaps 5-10 seconds visuals on that aircraft before their paths crossed. While the respective aircraft courses did not result in a collision it could be describes as a "close encounter". ATC stated shortly after that they estimated the vertical separation was about 100 feet, which is not in dispute by the student and they believe the horizontal separation was not more than 300 feet. The student then contacted ATC on COM2 to confirm that both aircraft had passed close by but were both safe and was asked by ATC to squawk ident. The student had not yet been trained on transponder use in the air and was unable to comply - they explained to ATC that they were a novice pilot. The student was provided with remedial training on the use of the transponder. Pilots are reminded of their responsibility to understand and manage all equipment fitted to the aircraft prior to flight.
8/5/2021	OCC2414	Middlemount	QLD	Jabiru	J230	Jabiru	3300	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The incident aircraft was being ferried from YMRI to YBOA via...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The incident aircraft was being ferried from YMRI to YBOA via YEML and YDAY. The aircraft had been purchased the week prior to the incident. The buyer had been taken for a flight in the aircraft by the seller, and a pre-purchase inspection had been conducted by an RAAus L2 maintainer and it had not been flown since the condition report. The departure from YMRI was uneventful, as was the climb to planned cruising altitude of 6500 ft. Approx. 85 nm into the first leg the aircraft suddenly began to vibrate. The throttle was immediately retarded to idle but the nature of the vibration didn't change. RPM was increased to cruise setting while the pilots considered their options. The vibration was very noticeable but was not severe, and there were no changes to the readings of any of the engine gauges or to the performance of the aircraft. The pilots assessed alternative landing options (YDYS and YMMU were the closest) but both these ALAs were owned and operated by mining companies and there were restrictions on their use. Also the status of the ALAs was unknown to the pilots so the decision was made to continue towards YEML. At that point (51 nm from YEML) the propeller departed the aircraft. The aircraft was immediately turned towards YMMU and a mayday was declared on the area frequency. Initially it looked like a glide to YMMU was possible but marginal. There was scrub between the aircraft and the end of the runway so rather than risk an undershoot into poor terrain the PIC elected to land in a paddock, with a farm track/driveway identified as an alternative option if the paddock was unsuitable. The non-flying pilot identified obstacles in the paddock and so the aircraft was manoeuvred to land on the farm track. The landing was relatively uneventful apart from the undercarriage running over a rut which made a loud noise but did not cause any obvious damage. CENSAR was contacted immediately after landing to cancel the mayday and advise that both occupants were safe and that the aircraft had not sustained further damage other than what was caused by the departing propeller.
6/5/2021	OCC2395	Lismore Aerodrome	NSW	Jabiru	J170 C	Jabiru	220B	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: After a satisfactory training check ride covering slight cros...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: After a satisfactory training check ride covering slight crosswinds before third solo, the student then carried out two satisfactory circuits solo. During the course of the third circuit a 7-8 Kt unexpected cross wind gust on touchdown caused the aeroplane to veer to the left side of the runway and run onto the grass section of runway strip. Due to the recent heavy rain the aircraft became bogged and suffered no apparent damage.
1/5/2021	OCC2425	Northam Aerodrome	WA	Jabiru	J170C	Jabiru	2200	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The pilot was undertaking a Touch & Go at Northam during whic...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The pilot was undertaking a Touch & Go at Northam during which they commenced the pre take off checks during the landing rollout too soon and at a higher speed than recommended. Whilst their vision was inside the aircraft they ran off the runway to the left and the LH main undercarriage leg was damaged (delamination). The pilot corrected and braked heavily to control the R-LOC. Subsequent inspection revealed the RH leg to also have a small delamination crack forming. The pilot has undertaken further remedial training with a RAAus CFI
10/4/2021	OCC2358	The Oaks Aerodrome	NSW	Jabiru	J170-C	Jabiru	Gen 4	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The engine was not performing normally, so the pilot performe...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The engine was not performing normally, so the pilot performed a precautionary landing in a paddock. OUTCOME: New Jabiru Gen 4 engine with around 110 hours. The aircraft engine suffered a piston failure from detonation due to fuel. Engine was returned to the Jabiru factory where the unserviceable cylinder and pistons were replaced. Engine refitted to aircraft with no further issues.
10/4/2021	OCC2355	Lismore	NSW	Jabiru	J200-B	Camit	3300	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Engine failure of mechanical nature due to number six cylind...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Engine failure of mechanical nature due to number six cylinder conrod failure. This resulted in a sudden stoppage of the engine from cruise power. Forced landing followed farm land with tall grass on water logged ground. The nose leg and propeller sustained damage during the landing; however, no injuries were sustained. REVIEW: Camit engine seizure due to failure of number 6 conrod, resulting in further damage to camshaft. Engine removed and replaced with Rotax engine; however, before completion the aircraft and new engine installation was written off due to flood damage.
10/4/2021	OCC2353	Coffs Harbour Aerodrome	NSW	Jabiru	J170-D	Jabiru	2200B	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Immediately following touchdown, two birds flew out of grass...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Immediately following touchdown, two birds flew out of grass from the right of runway, across the front of aircraft. One bird struck upper left wing spar. No damage sustained to aircraft. Bird activity seemed much higher than usual this morning. RAAus continues to monitor bird strike and wildlife reports at aerodromes to ensure correct ERSA/NOTAM information is in place.
27/3/2021	OCC2354	Oakland - Jereilderie	NSW	Jabiru	J160	Jabiru	2200B	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Cruising at 2500ft (approx. 500ft below broken cloud). The en...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Cruising at 2500ft (approx. 500ft below broken cloud). The engine suddenly lost power and revs, the pilot pulled on the carby heat, switched on the electric fuel pump, trimmed for best rate of decent and began selecting suitable landing spots. The engine was still running at 2200rpm so the pilot decided to land while still under reduced power. They turned down wind to cover more ground and selected suitable paddock noting fences, trees and looking for power lines. Turning into the wind the pilot selected 1st flap, reduced power to idle and landed as the stall warning started to sound. The motor still running, so the pilot turned off all switches and exited the aircraft.
26/3/2021	OCC2333	Shellharbour Aerodrome	NSW	Jabiru	J160C	Jabiru	2200	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Whilst conducting dual Engine Failure After Take OFF (EFATO) ...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Whilst conducting dual Engine Failure After Take OFF (EFATO) revision, the student did one EFATO and landed firmly but acceptably then taxied to runway threshold for another attempt. After take-off the instructor pulled the throttle back to idle at approx. 50 feet. The student lowered nose, then immediately flared, too high and a high rate descent ensued after which a very heavy landing took place. The aircraft bounced back into the air, the instructor tried to apply full throttle and forward stick but was unable in the time available to prevent a second extremely heavy landing which damaged the landing-gear, propeller and fuselage. RAAus has interacted with the Senior Instructor who has made some changes to the processes for conduct of EFATO to prevent a recurrence.
24/3/2021	OCC2332	Innisfail Aerodrome	QLD	Jabiru	J-160C	Jabiru	2200A	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: During take-off on runway 14 at Innisfail airport, QLD, the P...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: During take-off on runway 14 at Innisfail airport, QLD, the PIC observed passing overhead another aircraft simultaneously rolling on runway 03. The pilot tried to call the other aircraft, but without any success. Prior to departure, the pilot followed normal communication procedure advising of taxiing, holding short, backtracking and lining up on Runway 14 whilst maintaining a good lookout. The pilot did not see any other traffic, confirming an assumption that another aircraft previously seen on the ground had departed. The pilot had a process to confirm correct radio frequency, but believes they inadvertently pressed the frequency change button and switched to the standby frequency on their radio. The pilot identified their error with the incorrect frequency selected, however was unable to contact the other aircraft in flight. The next day, the pilot was able to contact the pilot of the other aircraft in order to discuss the incident at length via phone. The pilot advised that they have amended their own departure checklist to ensure that they have processes in place to confirm the frequency in use. Pilots are reminded to ensure thorough checks are in place to ensure correct radio frequency is selected and operation of their radio is confirmed - This may be achieved by requesting a radio check prior to takeoff where this is possible. Pilots should also ensure a thorough lookout is maintained and not make an assumption that no other traffic is operating in the vicinity if no radio calls are heard. This example is a great demonstration of a pilot acknowledging their mistake, reporting this occurrence and reviewing procedures to ensure a repeat occurrence does not take place in the future. This pilot is to be commended for reporting this issue and enabling other pilots to learn from their experience.
17/3/2021	OCC2330	Murray Bridge Aerodrome	SA	Jabiru	J170-D	Jabiru	2200B	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: A student and instructor were conducting a navigation exercis...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: A student and instructor were conducting a navigation exercise. Upon arrival at the first aerodrome there were several aircraft in the circuit and a significant cross wind was noted which required the instructor to prompt the student. The aircraft landed heavily and bounced, the instructor then initiated a go-around and flew back to base. A crack in the undercarriage leg was noted on arrival. RAAus Flight Operations staff mentored the instructor on personal minimums with students and the challenge implicit in letting the student operate to the extent of their experience to assist in learning and intervening in time to protect themselves and the aircraft.
7/3/2021	OCC2316	Dixons Creek	VIC	Jabiru	J200-B	Jabiru	3300A	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The aircraft was flying towards Lilydale 7.5 miles out when i...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The aircraft was flying towards Lilydale 7.5 miles out when it experienced a partial engine failure. This then became a total engine failure and the pilot completed a forced landing on a private airstrip. Review with the owner has indicated it could have been carburettor ice however the fuel pump and the 2 fuel caps have been replaced as a precaution. No further concerns have been observed since this occurrence.
15/2/2021	OCC2301	Narromine Aerodrome	NSW	Jabiru	J230-D	Jabiru	3300A	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: While manoeuvring, the pilot of a glider observed a Jabiru on...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: While manoeuvring, the pilot of a glider observed a Jabiru on a reciprocal track at the same level and both pilots took avoiding action. The two aircraft passed in close proximity. The Jabiru pilot reported making radio calls but not hearing any from the glider. The pilot has since completed a review with a CFI specifically focusing on the application of appropriate flight planning including awareness of NOTAMs, avoidance of aerodromes where increased collision risk was likely, the use of correct radio phraseology when intending to transit non-controlled aerodromes, appropriate responses to radio transmissions with aircraft in possible conflict with a planned track, CAR 166C requirements for mandatory broadcasting, considerations of track or height mitigation to reduce the potential for conflict with other aircraft " in the vicinity" of YNRM, recommended hemispherical cruising levels and reporting requirements with RAAus and ATSB. Members are encouraged to review CAAP 166 and the CASA "Be seen, be heard, be safe" information https://www.casa.gov.au/sites/default/files/radio-procedures-in-non-controlled-airspace.pdf