Engine failure during test flight at Cooinda Airport

No fatalities • Cooinda, Australia • Takeoff (climb)

An aircraft experienced an engine failure during a post-maintenance test flight, leading to a collision with a utility pole during an emergency landing attempt.

What happened

During a local flight intended to test an aircraft following recent maintenance work, an engine failure occurred shortly after departing from Cooinda Airport. The aircraft was in its initial climb phase when the loss of power was experienced by the pilot.

In an effort to manage the emergency, the pilot attempted to perform a forced landing within the nearby bushland. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck a telephone pole before coming to a stop. The impact resulted in the aircraft being damaged beyond repair.

Findings

  • The pilot survived the incident with minor injuries.
  • The primary sequence of events was triggered by an engine failure during the climb phase.

Probable cause

The engine failed during the initial climb phase of a post-maintenance test flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2008-09-09 GippsAero GA8 Airvan accident near Cooinda, Australia?

An aircraft experienced an engine failure during a post-maintenance test flight, leading to a collision with a utility pole during an emergency landing attempt.

Were there any fatalities in the 2008-09-09 GippsAero GA8 Airvan accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2008-09-09 involved a GippsAero GA8 Airvan, registration VH-KNE, operated by Kakadu Air, at Cooinda, Australia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The engine failed during the initial climb phase of a post-maintenance test flight.

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