A preliminary investigation has revealed shocking new details about the fatal plane crash at Shellharbour Airport last month that claimed three lives, with the aircraft reaching an altitude of just 50 feet before its deadly descent.
Tragic flight ends in disaster
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has released its preliminary findings into the October 11 crash that killed pilot Andrew Connors, his wife Julieanne, and their friend Colin McLaughlin. The trio were embarking on an overnight trip to Bathurst and planned to return to Shellharbour the following day when tragedy struck shortly after takeoff.
According to the ATSB report, Mr Connors had allowed another aircraft - a Cessna Caravan that was taxiing behind him - to take off first from Runway 26. Approximately one minute after that plane became airborne, Mr Connors began his own takeoff roll.
The final moments revealed
The investigation found that after a ground roll of about 410 metres, the Piper Cherokee Lance abruptly pitched up and yawed left as it became airborne. The aircraft then climbed away from the runway in what investigators described as a "nose high attitude while skidding and rolling left."
Despite the unstable climb, the banking angle stabilised briefly as the aircraft began turning left. It reached its maximum recorded altitude of approximately 50 feet (15 metres) above ground level before the situation deteriorated rapidly.
Just three seconds after reaching 50 feet, the angle of bank and descent rate began increasing dramatically before the aircraft collided with terrain. The wreckage came to rest at the threshold of the intersecting runway.
Investigation continues
ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell emphasised that the preliminary report contains only factual information gathered during the early evidence collection phase. "This preliminary report details factual information gathered during the early evidence collection phase, and does not contain findings or analysis, which will be included in a final report," Mr Mitchell stated.
The investigation faces challenges due to the severity of the crash. The pilot's logbook was reportedly in the aircraft at the time of the accident but could not be located because the cabin area suffered extensive damage from fire. Both wing fuel tanks ruptured during the accident sequence, leading to a post-impact fire that destroyed most of the fuselage.
Weather conditions at the time of the crash were described by the pilot of the preceding Cessna as gusty with moderate turbulence - conditions noted as common for Shellharbour Airport. The report indicated that Mr Connors, who was based at Shellharbour Airport, was familiar with mechanical turbulence associated with strong westerly winds at the location.
The ATSB's continuing investigation will include further review and examination of recorded data, aircraft documentation, maintenance records, and the pilot's medical records, qualifications and experience.
