Occurrences

Date	Occurrence #	Location	State	Aircraft	Model	Engine	Model	Summary
18/1/2021	OCC2255	Near Archerfield Airport	QLD	Jabiru	J-230D	Jabiru	Jabiru 3300A - Gen4	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Strong engine vibrations were detected during cruise. The pil...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Strong engine vibrations were detected during cruise. The pilot requested an emergency landing at Archerfield Airport and conducted a steep decent with full flap and normal landing. A review conducted by a LAME found no problem and could not reproduce the vibrations. The pilot then carried out a circuit and found the vibration to still be occurring. This was subsequently reviewed by the factory who identified a broken outer inlet spring on cylinder number 3.
17/1/2021	OCC2254	Redcliffe Aerodrome	QLD	Tecnam	P92 Eaglet	Rotax	912 ULS	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: During dual flight training a radio call was heard, which was...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: During dual flight training a radio call was heard, which was muffled though and unreadable, but the word Beachmere was clear. As this is an inbound local reporting point, the Instructor assumed the aircraft was reporting inbound to the aerodrome from Beachmere. Shortly after, the Instructor and student saw a Cessna 182 at the same level, 1000 feet, fly through late downwind on RWY07, passing them from left to right, south heading northbound, which the Instructor now gathered was heading to Beachmere. The Cessna flew straight through the circuit, at circuit height, this could have resulted in a collision. Pilots are strongly encouraged to refer to the latest version of CAAP 166 to ensure they are complying with requirements for operations at non-controlled airports.
17/1/2021	OCC2250	Rylstone Airpark Aerodrome	NSW	Quad City Ultralight	Challenger 2	Hirth	2703	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: After the walk around from returning from test flying a Chall...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: After the walk around from returning from test flying a Challenger in a local from YRYL down the Capertee Valley, one of the prop blades was observed to have the leading edge tape torn and was peeling from the blade. Further inspection showed that it appears to be from foreign object degree impact damage, there are signs of minor damage to the prop under the leading edge tape on two prop blades. The prop is not damaged beyond repair and is repairable within the manufacturers specifications.
15/1/2021	OCC2251	Brisbane West Wellcamp Aerodrome	QLD	I C P	Savannah VG XL	Rotax	912ULS	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: During flight the pilots’ headset become unserviceable due to...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: During flight the pilots’ headset become unserviceable due to noise. The the squelch switch was checked with no effect. The passenger headset continued OK and as they were also a pilot the passenger continued to monitor incoming transmissions. West of Brisbane West Wellcamp (YBWW) the "Low fuel warning light" illuminated. The pilot didn’t consider a PAN PAN call necessary as they were reasonably sure they had plenty of fuel and it was a faulty sender unit, however decided to land at YBWW to confirm all was okay. On touchdown the “Warning light” went out. The pilot checked to ensure all was okay, and confirmed 70 litres of fuel, all caps on and fuel in bottom collector tank. This was reviewed and established to be caused by a faulty fuel gauge sender unit - This information has been provided to the manufacturer as it appears this may be a commonly occurring issue. The manufacturer indicated that the sender units have since been modified. The radio required review by a radio technician.
13/1/2021	OCC2245	Caboolture Aerodrome	QLD	Aeropro	Eurofox 2K	Rotax	912 ULS	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: An Instructor was providing a training flight in the circuit...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: An Instructor was providing a training flight in the circuit at Caboolture. Runway 12 was in use. Their aircraft was number 1 on the approach and they had a R22 following behind. While They were established on the base leg, the pilot of the R22 reported they were about to turn base RWY 12 for grass right. Noting RWY 12 is a standard left pattern the Instructor knew this would require the pilot to cross their flight path on final approach. The Instructor clarified the pilots’ intentions and advised this was not available. The pilot of the R22 proceeded with their original intentions, resulting in it crossing through the Instructors final approach, slightly above. RAAus communicated this information with CASA who are reviewing this occurrence. CASA informed RAAus they will reach out to the helicopter operator in an attempt to discuss this occurrence to improve safety for future operations. Members are encouraged to report similar occurrences and to discuss concerns with local operators that may impact safety.
12/1/2021	OCC2247	South Grafton Aerodrome	NSW	Jabiru	J230D	Jabiru	33A	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: On take-off kangaroos ran across the field, power was reduce...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: On take-off kangaroos ran across the field, power was reduced, one Kangaroo suddenly changed direction and ran back in front of the aircraft's path resulting in it being hit Inspection of the aircraft and propeller indicated no damage. subsequent test flight indicated no damage. Kangaroos are listed in ERSA as a Hazard
11/1/2021	OCC2243	Kiama	NSW	Pipistrel	Alpha	Rotax	912 UL	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Pilot with passenger cruising near Kiama at approx.1000 feet ...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Pilot with passenger cruising near Kiama at approx.1000 feet in Pipistrel Alpha when the pilot's door opened in flight. The door slammed up against the wing with the rear part of door latched in the open position (by design) and front section of door folded down causing increased drag and controllability issues. The pilot issued a Mayday call and subsequently made a safe landing at Shellharbour Airport. Review of this occurrence determined that it is possible that the passenger inadvertently knocked the door latch causing it to open in flight. The manufacturer has been notified of this occurrence and it is not believed that there is any ongoing safety of flight issue in relation to the design. Members are reminded of the importance of ensuring passengers are appropriately briefed on aircraft design features, including door latches, to ensure they avoid interfering with aircraft systems in flight.
9/1/2021	OCC2253	Maryborough Aerodrome	QLD	Howard Hughes Engineering	LightWing GR-532	Rotax	912	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The pilot was landing in their tailwheel aircraft on a bitume...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The pilot was landing in their tailwheel aircraft on a bitumen runway in light winds. The aircraft bounced before completing an uncontrolled 180 degree turn. The aircraft wingtip grazed the ground and a small scratch was subsequently evident. The pilot has since changed their procedure for landing and now opts to land on the grass. Mentoring was conducted by Flight Operations staff in areas such as decision making and personal minimums.
8/1/2021	OCC2242	Brooklands Aerodrome	SA	Airborne	Edge XT 582-L	Rotax	582 UL	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: A low time pilot flew to an unfamiliar airport on a day when ...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: A low time pilot flew to an unfamiliar airport on a day when the weather was turbulent. Turbulence on final approach resulted in a hard landing which damaged the nose wheel. The pilot was mentored by RAAus Flight Operations staff. RAAus members are reminded to ensure a stable approach is achieved and if in any doubt, conduct a go around. The use of a personal minimums checklist is also invaluable when deciding to fly in less than perfect weather.
4/1/2021	OCC2238	Bundaberg	QLD	Jabiru	SP470	Camit	CAE 2200	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The hinge pin had frozen in the hinge tabs. The pilot of a ...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The hinge pin had frozen in the hinge tabs. The pilot of a Jabiru SP470 was conducting a full free and movement when the control stuck, on checking, the pilot found the right hand aileron hanging down, and the complete hinge had broken off. CASA have issued an airworthiness notice to address this issue as this is a commonly identified defect. Members are reminded of the importance in reviewing and carrying out airworthiness notices applicable to their aircraft.
4/1/2021	OCC2260	Ballina	NSW	Tecnam	P2002 Sierra MKII	Rotax	912 ULS2-01	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: A Cessna 172 did not make the mandatory broadcasts while tran...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: A Cessna 172 did not make the mandatory broadcasts while transiting the Ballina CTAF and was unable to be contacted via radio. This resulted in separation issues with a Tecnam P2002 operating in the area. The Ballina Certified Air/Ground Radio Operator (CAGRO) was aware of this aircraft and notified the pilot of the Tecnam who was able to visually identify and take action to avoid a near miss occurring. Members are reminded of the importance of thorough pre-flight planning to ensure they are operating on the appropriate radio frequencies as well as knowing their requirements for radio use. Pilots must ensure they apply alerted see and avoid principles when operating under visual flight rules (VFR).
3/1/2021	OCC2241	Ballina / Byron regional Aerodrome	NSW	Airborne	XT 912	Rotax	912UL	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The incident occurred on initial climb while climbing at an a...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The incident occurred on initial climb while climbing at an altitude of 500ft. The engine experienced significant and sudden power loss and climb had to be aborted. The aircraft was levelled, glide was initiated and a broadcast was made on the local CTAF frequency indicating that the aircraft would turn back for landing due to power loss of the engine. The aircraft was landed at glide speed well above stall speed without any difficulties with the engine at idle. Investigation into the possible cause of the power loss identified likely spark plug failure. However, the spark plugs showed no signs of wear, fault or unusual colouring. The entire set was replaced and there has been no recurrence of the fault.
2/1/2021	OCC2240	Wedderburn Aerodrome	NSW	Jabiru	J230D	Camit	335 LRE	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The pilot was conducting circuits on 17 and on the third cir...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The pilot was conducting circuits on 17 and on the third circuit the engine totally failed just after turning crosswind. The pilot was able to land the aircraft uneventfully. On inspection, it was found that the piston in number 5 cylinder had disintegrated.
31/12/2020	OCC2237	Gingin North Aerodrome	WA	Jabiru	J170C	Jabiru	J2200	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Whilst practising forced landing simulations overhead Gingin...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: Whilst practising forced landing simulations overhead Gingin North ALA, the engine was run at idle power for a considerable time, with short increases of power to 1800 RPM to clear the engine. When the pilot went to increase power to abort the simulation, the engine ran rough. The pilot elected to land on the runway at Gingin North ALA. The engine was inspected and it was determined that the spark plug on one cylinder has fouled. The spark plugs were replaced, the engine tested and the aircraft was flown back to its home airport of Muchea Greenside (YGSD), a distance of 16NM.
30/12/2020	OCC2235	Karakin	WA	Thruster Aircraft	Gemini	Rotax	503 DC DI	OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The pilot was reportedly conducting ground strip runs, howeve...
OCCURRENCE DETAILS SUBMITTED TO RAAUS: The pilot was reportedly conducting ground strip runs, however on one of the runs the aircraft became airborne and climbed and then lost control. RAAus determined the pilot did not hold current RAAus membership, was not appropriately endorsed for the type of aircraft, his BFR was overdue and the aircraft was not registered. His Pilot Certificate has been suspended pending further actions to be taken by the pilot.