What happened
During a scenic flight operation, two aircraft were operating on published routes at the same altitude. While departing from Jim Jim Falls towards Double Falls, the pilot of SQT broadcast their position. However, the pilot of KNB, who was tracking on a reciprocal route, did not receive this transmission. This lack of awareness resulted in the two aircraft coming into close proximity.
The investigation
The investigation examined the communication protocols used during the departure from Jabiru Aerodeome and the subsequent flight paths. It was noted that the pilot of KNB did not include the phrase ‘via Lightning Dreaming’ in their initial departure broadcast. While such specific detail is not a mandatory requirement, the investigation considered whether its absence prevented the pilot of SQT from identifying the potential for head-on traffic on the same altitude.
Furthermore, the investigation looked into why the transmission from SQT went unheard. It was suggested that the pilot of KNB may have been engaged in communication with another company pilot on a different radio frequency. Additionally, the large geographic area covered by the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) was identified as a factor that can make monitoring difficult.
Findings
- The aircraft were operating on reciprocal tracks at the same altitude.
- Ineffective communication prevented the pilots from being aware of each other's positions.
- The pilot of KNB did not include specific route details in their departure broadcast.
- The pilot of KNB may have been distracted by communication with another aircraft on a separate radio.