No fatalities

Ambulance Flight Crashes During Approach to Mount Augustus (VH-DEE)

Mount Augustus, AustraliaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 4, 1981, a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo (registration VH-DEE) operated by Royal Flying Doctor Service - RFDS was involved in an aviation accident near Mount Augustus, Australia during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 6 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine airplane on an ambulance flight from Carnarvon to Mount Augustus struck trees and crashed while turning onto final approach. Both occupants were injured and the aircraft destroyed.

Accident Overview

On a moonless night, a twin-engine airplane departed Carnarvon on an ambulance mission to evacuate a sick child from Mount Augustus. The aircraft carried one pilot and one nurse. The approach to Mount Augustus was conducted under limited visibility conditions. To assist the crew, six vehicles were dispatched on the ground with their lights on.

Sequence of Events

As the airplane turned onto final approach, it descended too low. The aircraft struck trees and subsequently crashed. The collision caused substantial damage, resulting in the destruction of the airplane.

Aftermath

Both occupants—the pilot and the nurse—sustained injuries. The aircraft was destroyed. No information has been released regarding registration, date, or further details of the flight.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Jul 1981 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident near Mount Augustus, Australia?

A twin-engine airplane on an ambulance flight from Carnarvon to Mount Augustus struck trees and crashed while turning onto final approach. Both occupants were injured and the aircraft destroyed.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Jul 1981 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Jul 1981 involved a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo, registration VH-DEE, operated by Royal Flying Doctor Service - RFDS, at Mount Augustus, Australia.