CFIT — fixed-wing aircraft, outback SA

Summary

An Outback Air Charter Piper Navajo Chieftain impacted rising terrain in the Musgrave Ranges west of Coober Pedy while operating at night in VMC below the minimum safe altitude. The pilot and three passengers were fatally injured. The aircraft was destroyed.

Investigation Findings (4)

1. 01Flight crew did not reference the terrain on the IFR chart or cross-check altitude against the MSA.
2. 02The operator's Operations Manual did not specify minimum safe altitude procedures for night VFR to IFR transitional routes.
3. 03ATSB identified a gap in terrain awareness training for remote charter operators.
4. 04CASA mandated TAWS (Terrain Awareness and Warning System) fitment for all Category 6 charter operators with a minimum seating capacity of 6.