A plane made an emergency landing on Mona Vale Golf Course in August.Nine NewsAbout six minutes later,while trying to reachLong Reef golf course and with the engine progressively decreasing in power,the instructor decided to land at Mona Vale golf course instead.
Long Reef had fewer trees,but Mona Vale was closer,and the engine RPM was progressively decreasing,according to the ATSB report.
“This investigation highlights the importance of effective decision-making skills in emergency situations,” ATSB chief commissioner Angus Mitchell said.
Previous ATSB investigations had highlighted how delaying a decision to land after an engine malfunction could lead to more challenging landings.
The bureau said the instructor’s timely decision to land sooner probably minimised the adverse consequences of the forced landing.
The aircraft was substantially damaged while those on board sustained minor injuries.Nine NewsBut during the final stages of the approach,the pilot realised the plane would not be able to safely land straight ahead and made a right turn to avoid facilities,dropping the right wing and causing the plane to land heavily.
It came to a stop before the clubhouse on the 15th hole.
The landing caused substantial damage to the plane,while the student pilot sustained minor injuries.
The leased plane’s operator,Airspeed Aviation,has reviewed its processes and is consulting with other industry participants to create guidance on using aircraft with older engines in response to the crash,the ATSB reported.
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