Overdue aircraft located — Cessna 182 Skylane, remote SA

Summary

A privately operated Cessna 182 Skylane was reported overdue after failing to arrive at Port Augusta on a day VFR flight from Hawker. Search and rescue located the aircraft in the Flinders Ranges after the pilot conducted a precautionary landing on a station track due to deteriorating visibility in dust. The pilot and passenger were uninjured.

Investigation Findings (4)

1. 01The pilot had departed without filing a flight plan or submitting a SARWATCH.
2. 02No EPIRB or personal locator beacon was carried on board.
3. 03The pilot underestimated the extent and speed of the approaching dust storm.
4. 04CASA reinforced the importance of SARWATCH lodgement and carriage of an approved PLB for all outback flights.