Event Description
On 17 July 2008, at approximately 0915 Eastern Standard Time, the pilot of a Piper Navajo PA-31 aircraft, registered VH-IHR, was en route from Century Mine, Queensland, to Mount Isa, Queensland, when the left engine lost power. The pilot transmitted an urgency broadcast (PAN) to air traffic control. A short time later, the right engine also lost power, prompting the pilot to transmit a distress signal (MAYDAY) and declare his intention to carry out an off-field emergency landing.
The aircraft impacted terrain approximately 22 km north of Mount Isa, about 4 km from the Barkly Highway, in relatively flat, sparsely wooded bushland. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained serious injuries.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation into the fuel starvation event identified several factors:
- The pilot did not monitor outboard fuel tank quantity during the flight.
- The pilot incorrectly diagnosed the engine power losses.
- The aircraft was not in the correct configuration for the forced landing.
These findings are based on the available evidence and are not intended to apportion blame or liability to any particular organisation or individual.