On October 16, 1938, a Simmonds Spartan (registration VH-URB) operated by Airlines WA was involved in an aviation accident near Mundaring Weir, Australia in flight. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control resulting from a severe downdraft encountered while flying over hilly and wooded terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
An aircraft crashed into a wooded area after the pilot lost control while flying over hilly terrain. Both occupants sustained injuries, and the airframe was destroyed.
What happened
The incident occurred while the aircraft was traversing a region characterized by hilly and wooded terrain. During this phase of flight, the pilot encountered a severe downdraft that significantly impacted the aircraft's stability. Despite efforts to manage the situation, the pilot was unable to maintain control of the machine. Consequently, the aircraft descended into the trees below, resulting in a crash. Both individuals on board sustained injuries during the impact, and the airframe suffered damage that rendered it beyond repair.
Findings
The official investigation attributed the accident to loss of control caused by the severe downdraft encountered over the uneven terrain.
Probable cause
Loss of control resulting from a severe downdraft encountered while flying over hilly and wooded terrain.
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