1 fatality

Merimbula aircraft accident involving single-engine crash (VH-TOL)

Merimbula, AustraliaTakeoff (climb)

On November 8, 1981, a Rockwell Shrike Commander 500 (registration VH-TOL) operated by Safcol Seafoods was involved in an aviation accident near Merimbula, Australia during takeoff. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft became uncontrollable during the climb phase following takeoff. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-11Data APIEditorial standards

A solo flight departing from Merimbula Airport ended in a fatal crash into the local marina during the initial climb.

What happened

On the date of the incident, a twin engine airplane departed from Merimbula Airport. Shortly after the departure, while the aircraft was in its climbing phase, it became uncontrollable. The flight path deviated from the intended route, leading to an impact within the Merimbula marina.

There was only one person on board during the flight. The pilot was the sole occupant of the aircraft and sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash.

Findings

No specific technical findings or mechanical failures were detailed in the initial report regarding why the aircraft lost control during the climb.

Probable cause

The aircraft became uncontrollable during the climb phase following takeoff.