What happened
While performing sheep mustering duties at Mulgorith Station, South Australia, a Cessna 172N, registered VH-SQO, entered a dive toward a group of livestock. The aircraft descended from an altitude of approximately 150–200 feet to roughly 50 feet above the ground. Following the dive, the aircraft pitched up sharply to an altitude of between 250 and 300 feet. During this steep climb, the aircraft banked to the left and descended into the terrain. The impact occurred at a 70° nose-down angle with no forward momentum, and the damage to the propeller suggested the engine was producing power at the time of impact.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of flight maneuvers and the pilot's qualifications. Examination of the wreckage and recovered components revealed no mechanical defects, fuel issues, or adverse weather conditions that contributed to the accident. Investigators also determined that pilot incapacitation was unlikely due to the pilot's medical history and toxicology results.
Analysis of the flight path indicated that the steep climb-out following the dive caused a rapid loss of airspeed and an increase in the angle of attack. This maneuver led to an aerodynamic stall and spin from a height that was too low to allow for recovery. Additionally, investigators reviewed the pilot's employment terms, noting that while the pilot held a low-level rating, they lacked the specific aerial mustering endorsement required for the tasks being performed.
Findings
- The pilot was conducting aerial mustering maneuvers without the required aerial mustering endorsement.
- The pilot's lack of specific training and experience left them ill-equipped to manage the complexities of livestock mustering.
- The job advertisement for the pilot/station hand position listed duties for aerial stock mustering but did not require the necessary endorsement.
- The pilot was observed performing mustering maneuvers outside their qualifications on multiple occasions without intervention from station staff.
- The upper torso restraint of the aircraft's seatbelt was stowed and not in use during the flight.