Mid-air collision near Bankstown Airport involving two aircraft

2 fatalities • Bankstown, Australia • Flight

A mid-air collision between a Dove and a Piper PA-30-160B Twin Comanche resulted in the loss of both aircraft and four fatalities during a local flight near Bankstown.

What happened

During a local training mission, an aircraft of the type Dove was performing circling maneuvers in the vicinity of Bankstown Airport. During this period, the aircraft collided with a Piper PA-30-160B Twin Comanche, registered VH-WWB, which was arriving at the airport from Sydney. The impact caused both aircraft to descend rapidly into a residential neighborhood situated approximately 3 NM from the airfield.

The collision resulted in the total destruction of both planes. There were four fatalities in total, representing all occupants on board both aircraft. While the crash occurred within a populated area, no injuries or deaths were reported among people on the ground.

Findings

Reports indicate that the crew operating the Dove may have been experiencing radio communication difficulties prior to the mid-air impact.

Probable cause

The collision was preceded by reported radio malfunctions involving the Dove crew.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1974-03-13 De Havilland DH.104 Dove accident near Bankstown, Australia?

A mid-air collision between a Dove and a Piper PA-30-160B Twin Comanche resulted in the loss of both aircraft and four fatalities during a local flight near Bankstown.

Were there any fatalities in the 1974-03-13 De Havilland DH.104 Dove accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1974-03-13 involved a De Havilland DH.104 Dove, registration VH-WST, operated by Skyway Airlines (Australia), at Bankstown, Australia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The collision was preceded by reported radio malfunctions involving the Dove crew.

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