AN investigation has been launched into the cause of a plane crash in Heatherton last week.
A Piper PA-32-300 aircraft crashed one kilometer north of Moorabbin Airport last Tuesday, 22 June, just after midday. The pilot, who was the sole occupant of the plane, was taken to hospital with serious injuries.
The plane was destroyed when it hit the ground.
A statement from Victoria Police read “it is believed a light plane crashed into trees shortly after take-off from Moorabbin Airport just after midday. The plane crashed into a paddock in semi-rural area of Heatherton – close to Moorabbin Airport.”
“The exact cause is yet to be determined and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.”
The Australian Transport Safety Board has since launched its investigation into the plane crash.
A summary on the ATSB website read “the aircraft had been conducting circuit operations at Moorabbin Airport and collided with terrain approximately one kilometer north of the airport at Heatherton. Emergency services attended the accident site shortly afterwards and rescued the pilot, the sole occupant, from the wreckage.”
“The evidence collection phase of the investigation will include examination of the accident site and wreckage by ATSB investigators, and the collection of other relevant evidence, including recorded data and communications, air traffic control surveillance data, weather information, witness reports, aircraft operator procedures and maintenance records, and interviewing the pilot,” the ATSB said.
“A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.”
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 30 June 2021