On May 24, 1983, a Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise (registration VH-MLU) operated by Interair was involved in an aviation accident near Bargo, Australia during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Despite an extensive investigation, the reason for the loss of control leading to this accident could not be determined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft on a standard instrument departure lost control at FL160, descended vertically, and impacted terrain. The pilot, sole occupant, was killed. Investigation could not determine the cause of loss of control.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft was cleared via a Standard Instrument Departure with an unrestricted climb to Flight Level (FL) 220. It climbed on track at an average rate of 1300 ft/min until FL130, then the rate of climb reduced to 350 ft/min until FL140. At FL140, the rate of climb increased to 1800 ft/min. Upon reaching FL160, the aircraft entered a near vertical descent. Radar contact was lost one minute later at an altitude of 3100 feet. The aircraft impacted the ground in a near vertical attitude. The pilot, sole on board, was killed.
Investigation Findings
Despite an extensive investigation, the reason for the loss of control leading to this accident could not be determined. Investigators noted several other reported occurrences involving sudden loss of control in this aircraft type. The United States Federal Aviation Administration conducted a certification review of the type, but the results of that review do not appear to indicate any factors relevant to this particular accident.
Probable cause
Despite an extensive investigation, the reason for the loss of control leading to this accident could not be determined.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 24 May 1983 Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise accident near Bargo, Australia?
An aircraft on a standard instrument departure lost control at FL160, descended vertically, and impacted terrain. The pilot, sole occupant, was killed. Investigation could not determine the cause of loss of control.
Were there any fatalities in the 24 May 1983 Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 24 May 1983 involved a Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise, registration VH-MLU, operated by Interair, at Bargo, Australia.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Despite an extensive investigation, the reason for the loss of control leading to this accident could not be determined.
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