Overview
On a private instrument flight rules (IFR) flight from Emerald to Gladstone, Queensland, a Piper Aircraft Corporation PA-31-350, registered VH-ZGZ, experienced a loss of control and crashed near Raglan, approximately 39 km west of Gladstone. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and a post-impact fire, and all three occupants sustained fatal injuries.
Flight History
The flight departed Emerald at 1807 Eastern Standard Time with a pilot in command and two passengers, one of whom was a qualified pilot but not endorsed on the aircraft type. The pilot contacted air traffic control and reported climbing to 7,000 ft with an estimated arrival at Gladstone of 1915. After being radar identified, the pilot requested and received clearance to climb to 9,000 ft and track direct to Gladstone. At 1820, the pilot reported level at 9,000 ft and requested deviation to avoid weather, which was approved. Subsequent deviations were requested and approved. At 1835, the pilot reported clear of weather and requested direct track and descent to 7,000 ft, which was approved. At 1848, the pilot reported being at the top of descent and was cleared to descend. At 1852, the pilot switched to the Gladstone common traffic advisory frequency (CTAF) and acknowledged termination of radar and control services at 5,500 ft.
Accident Sequence
Approximately three minutes after the last communication, at 1855:45, air traffic control noticed the aircraft's symbol had disappeared from the radar display. Attempts to contact the pilot were unsuccessful, and other aircraft in the area were asked to assist. A witness near Raglan reported hearing the aircraft's engine(s) overhead, then hearing the engine(s) 'roar and shut off again' several times. Shortly after, the witness saw a flash and heard an explosion. The witness notified police.
Wreckage and Injuries
Wreckage was found near Raglan. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and post-impact fire. All three occupants were fatally injured.
Probable Cause
Contributing safety factors identified that the aircraft diverged left from a steady, controlled descent and entered a steep, left spiral descent from which recovery was not achieved. Other safety factors included the dark and very likely cloudy conditions, which meant that recovery to normal flight could only be achieved by sole reference to flight instruments, a task likely made significantly difficult in a steep descent.