Accident Details
A night freighter aircraft operating a cargo service from Cairns (CNS) to Brisbane (BNE) with intermediate stops at Townsville (TSV) and Proserpine (PPP) crashed during its approach to Proserpine. The accident occurred approximately 4 kilometres north-west of the threshold of runway 11, in line with that runway. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and a subsequent fire.
Flight History
The flight departed Cairns at 18:47 hours. After arriving at Townsville, the aircraft was refuelled and additional freight was loaded before departing for Proserpine at 19:47 hours. The aircraft was cleared to track direct to Proserpine while climbing to flight level 250 (FL250). At 20:08 hours, the pilot reported leaving FL250 for descent into Proserpine and requested clearance to intercept the 310 omni radial inbound for a DME Arrival. The request was approved, and shortly afterward the aircraft reported established on the radial. At 20:16 hours, in response to a query from Townsville Control, the aircraft reported its altitude as 2,600 feet and was instructed to call Townsville Flight Service Unit. After that initial contact, no further transmissions were received from the aircraft.
Witness Observations
A witness residing near the final approach path observed the aircraft while it was on final approach. Analysis of her observations indicated that when she sighted the aircraft, it was at a lower height than normal for the type of approach the pilot had reported would be flown. At the time of the sighting, she did not notice anything unusual about the aircraft's operation. Other persons present at Proserpine Aerodrome at the time of the accident reported rainstorms and strong winds in the vicinity.
Investigation
An inspection of the aircraft and its systems did not reveal any defect that could have contributed to the accident. Despite extensive investigation, no evidence could be found to indicate why the aircraft was below the normal glide path during the approach.