No fatalities

Aircraft crash near Landsborough Airfield (VH-EQK)

Landsborough, AustraliaLanding (descent or approach)

On March 30, 1978, a Britten-Norman Islander (registration VH-EQK) operated by Unionair was involved in an aviation accident near Landsborough, Australia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck trees and power lines while on approach to the airfield. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine airplane crashed into swampy terrain near Landsborough Airfield during its approach, resulting in minor injuries to the crew.

What happened

During the final approach to Landsborough Airfield, a twin engine airplane encountered difficulties while maneuvering through obstacles. The aircraft drifted into a line of power lines and trees before ultimately impacting swampy ground.

While the impact caused significant damage to the airframe, rendering the plane a total loss, there were no fatalities. Both members of the flight crew sustained minor injuries during the accident.

Findings

  • The aircraft's path was interrupted by contact with power lines and trees.
  • The crash occurred during the approach phase of flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck trees and power lines while on approach to the airfield.