The ATSB is investigating a fatal light aircraft crash in Victoria on Tuesday morning.
The Cessna 150 (pictured), VH-EYU, appeared to stall and collided with the ground shortly after take-off from Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome at Parwan in Melbourne’s North West at around 11:20am, killing its male pilot. The plane was registered to Bacchus Marsh Aero Club (BMAC).
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In a statement, the ATSB said it had commenced a transport safety investigation into the incident.
“As reported to the ATSB, shortly after take-off from Bacchus Marsh, the aircraft descended and collided with terrain in a paddock adjacent to airport,” the bureau said.
“The ATSB is deploying to the accident site a team of transport safety investigators from its Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Sydney offices, specialising in aircraft maintenance and operations.
“Investigators will conduct a range of evidence-gathering activities on site, including wreckage examination, site mapping with a drone, and recovery of any relevant aircraft components for further examination at the ATSB’s technical facilities in Canberra.
“Investigators will also seek to interview any witnesses and involved parties, and collect relevant recorded information including any flight tracking data, as well as pilot and aircraft maintenance records, and weather information.”
The aerodrome also hosts a flying school as well as gliding clubs and is operated by Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome Management.
“We are aware of the awful situation at the aerodrome,” said Derek Madden, chief executive of aerodrome owner Moorabool Shire Council.
“While investigations are continuing, we can’t make any further comment, but our thoughts are with all involved.”
The pilot, who is yet to be identified, was the only occupant of the aircraft.