On November 7, 1990, a Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise (registration VH-WMU) operated by Western N.S.W. Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near Bathurst, Australia during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft crashed during its approach due to the presence of fog and reduced visibility. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A cargo flight operating from Bankstown ended in a fatal accident during the approach phase due to heavy fog.
What happened
During a cargo transport mission originating from Bankstown, an aircraft crashed while attempting to land. The flight was carrying a shipment of banknotes at the time of the accident. The aircraft was operating in conditions characterized by heavy fog, which significantly reduced visibility during the approach phase of the flight.
There was only one person on board the aircraft, the pilot. Following the impact, it was confirmed that the pilot sustained fatal injuries. No other occupants were present on the flight.
Findings
The accident occurred during the approach phase of the flight.
Low visibility caused by foggy conditions was a primary factor during the descent.
The flight was performing a commercial cargo operation involving the transport of currency.
Probable cause
The aircraft crashed during its approach due to the presence of fog and reduced visibility.