On April 2, 1981, a Swearingen SA226 Metro II (registration VH-BPL) operated by Bush Pilots Airways was involved in an aviation accident near Emerald, Australia during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot lost directional or aerodynamic control of the aircraft at the moment of liftoff, leading to a runway crash. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft experienced a loss of control during takeoff, resulting in a runway excursion and significant damage to the airframe.
What happened
During the takeoff phase of flight, the pilot experienced a sudden loss of control over the aircraft. This instability led to an accident on the runway surface immediately following liftoff. The aircraft was occupied by only one person at the time of the event.
As a result of the impact, the pilot sustained injuries, though no fatalities were reported. The aircraft itself suffered damage that rendered it a total loss, as it was deemed beyond repair following the incident.
Findings
The primary factor in the accident was the loss of control during the takeoff roll and liftoff phase.
Probable cause
The pilot lost directional or aerodynamic control of the aircraft at the moment of liftoff, leading to a runway crash.