Non-inquest findings into the death of a commercial aerial spraying pilot
Demographics
32y, male
Date of death
2022-09-19
Finding date
2024-10-28
Cause of death
Multiple injuries from light aircraft collision following bird strike
AI-generated summary
A 32-year-old experienced commercial aerial spraying pilot died when his Air Tractor AT-502B aircraft struck a Plains Turkey (Australian Bustard) while conducting low-level spraying at approximately 8 feet above ground at 116 knots. The bird penetrated the right side Perspex windshield (4mm thickness), causing the cockpit to shatter. The pilot either lost control due to startle response or direct strike incapacitation. After approximately 5 seconds of continued flight over 310 metres, the aircraft entered a steep climb and crashed in a near-vertical attitude. The aircraft had no pre-existing technical failures. Clinical lessons include: the vulnerability of low-level agricultural aviation operations to wildlife hazards; the inadequacy of standard 4mm Perspex windshields against large bird strikes; and the manufacturer's belated recognition that thicker windshields (3/8 inch glass versus original 1/4 inch) and aftermarket storm shields provide better protection. This was not a preventable death but highlights systemic aviation safety gaps.
AI-generated summary and tagging — may contain inaccuracies; refer to original finding for legal purposes.
Contributing factors
- Bird strike (Plains Turkey/Australian Bustard) at low altitude
- Perspex windshield penetrated by large bird
- Low flying height (8 feet) limiting time to recover control
- High airspeed (116 knots) at time of strike
- Standard thickness (4mm) Perspex windshield inadequate against large bird impact
- Pilot unable to maintain control following windshield breach
Coroner's recommendations
- Consideration of upgrading to thicker aircraft windshields (3/8 inch glass versus 1/4 inch standard) in areas of high bird activity
- Implementation of published recommended practices from the Australian Aviation Wildlife Hazard Group (2014) to manage wildlife strike risk
- Assessment of wildlife hazards and proximity of known wildlife to aircraft manoeuvring areas and flight paths
- Evaluation of mitigation measures including flight helmet wearing, 4-point seatbelt use, and where possible, fitment of thicker windshields
- Consideration of aftermarket storm shield installation (Hershy Flying Service Storm Shield STC SA01845WI) for enhanced protection against foreign object strikes
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