What happened
The incident occurred while the single-engine aircraft was on final approach to Essendon Airport. During this phase of flight, the airframe made contact with a tree. The impact caused the plane to crash approximately three miles east of the airport perimeter, in an area adjacent to a golf course.
Both individuals aboard the aircraft sustained injuries as a result of the collision. The structural damage sustained by the fuselage and components was severe enough to render the airframe beyond repair.
Findings
The primary factor leading to the accident was the loss of clearance from terrain, specifically a tree, during the final approach segment. This contact resulted in an uncontrolled descent into the ground near the golf course.