What happened
A charter flight departed Lady Barron Aerodrome at approximately 17:00 AEDT, bound for Bridport, Tasmania, carrying a pilot and six passengers. Shortly after takeoff, while climbing toward a target altitude of 1,500 feet, the aircraft encountered instrument meteorological conditions. Because the pilot lacked a command instrument rating and the aircraft type was not outfitted for flight in such conditions, the crew became lost while attempting to navigate back to Lady Barron.
During the attempt to return to the airfield, the aircraft drifted toward the high terrain of Strzelecki National Park. At roughly 17:15, the aircraft emerged from the clouds at a very low altitude within the park. The pilot attempted a left turn into a narrow valley but found the terrain prevented both turning and climbing. In an effort to perform a forced landing, the pilot reduced speed to the aircraft's stalling speed. The aircraft subsequently struck treetops before hitting the ground.
Following the impact, a small fire ignited under the engine, which a passenger extinguished using the onboard fire extinguisher. All occupants, including the pilot and six passengers, evacuated the wreckage safely. There was one injury reported, involving a passenger who sustained minor injuries during the crash. All individuals were later rescued by helicopter and transported to a hospital in Whitemark.
Findings
- The pilot attempted to navigate through instrument meteorological conditions without the necessary instrument rating.
- The aircraft lacked the required equipment for flight in IMC.
- Navigational disorientation led the aircraft into high-terrain areas of the national park.