What happened
On 15 October 2023, the pilot of a Cessna 172M, registered VH-JUA and operated by Air Gold Coast, was conducting a private flight from Gold Coast Airport, Queensland to Murwillumbah, New South Wales. During the final approach, the pilot estimated that the aircraft was too high for a landing and elected to conduct a go-around. During the go-around, the aircraft did not climb as expected, resulting in the pilot conducting a forced landing about 1 km north-east of the airport. The aircraft was substantially damaged and the pilot sustained minor injuries.
What the ATSB found
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) found that it was unlikely there was a mechanical fault with the engine. The pilot’s decision to maintain full flaps (40 degrees) during the go-around created a large amount of drag and impaired the aircraft’s climb performance. The ATSB also found that an unsecured nose-wheel steering tow bar in the aircraft increased the risk of serious injury to the pilot.
Further analysis indicated that the approach was stable, with the descent stopping at less than 80 ft above the threshold, placing the aircraft in a good position to land. The go-around commenced about halfway down the runway rather than over the threshold. While the pilot reported that the engine did not produce full power, recorded engine parameters were unavailable. However, the aircraft was able to maintain speed and height across the runway and climb with full flap, and no faults were found during the engine inspection, making it unlikely that the engine had any mechanical issues or significant carburettor icing. A witness reported a loud bang as power was applied, consistent with an abrupt throttle movement that may have momentarily faltered the engine.
What has been done as a result
Since the accident, the operator has:
- Updated their quick reference handbook (QRH) to be clearer on balked landings (go-around) procedures.
- Issued an information circular to students and private hire pilots reminding them of the importance to secure items in the baggage area.
- Updated the private hiring agreements with regard to tighter recency requirements.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to maintain full flaps during the go-around, which increased drag and reduced climb performance.