The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has released its preliminary report into a light plane crash at Shellharbour Airport that killed three people. The investigation has so far found no mechanical faults with the aircraft.
Pilot Andrew Connors, his wife Julianne Connors, and their friend Colin McLaughlin died when the Piper PA-32R-300 Cherokee Lance crashed into the tarmac and caught fire shortly after take-off on the October long weekend. The private charter was headed to Bathurst in New South Wales.
ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell said the crash was witnessed by multiple people, including Rural Fire Service crew members training at the airport. The aircraft stayed airborne for only a few seconds. Flying conditions were clear with a headwind of about 12 knots.
Investigators noted the take-off speed was around 61 knots, but the aircraft pitched steeply and yawed to the left. The pilot's seat was in the correct position, and the aircraft was well serviced with no obvious mechanical issues. Power was being delivered to the propeller, flaps were set correctly, and trim settings were normal.
The investigation is ongoing and could take up to a year. No line of inquiry has been ruled out, but the steep pitch is a main focus. Further examination of recorded data, documentation, recovered components, and pilot records is needed.
