This week Roger attended Herves funeral, where discussion naturally turned to what could have caused this tragic accident. Herves Auster was registered as a French Permit Aircraft and I understand in such instance, under French protocol, there will not be an official investigation where no third party is injured. As is the case. The lack of such an investigation leaves questions unanswered and the door open to speculation; local opinion at Herves airfield, is that a strut failed. Auster struts were designed and manufactured in the usual Auster way (over engineered) and have previously been tested to destruction by Auster for the CAA. That said, they like us age and we would all do well not to overlook them. We are attempting to gain some facts in a bid to shed some light on the matter but it is by no means certain we will. We do know that Herve crashed just outside the airfield boundary having just made a run and break and that the aircraft impacted nose first. Speculation serves no purpose and with the lack of clarity please ensure you: -Conduct thorough Permit renewals and 50hr/ 6mth checks. In the UK, to the letter of the CAA Lams schedule, and for Austers outside of the UK we recommend the Lambs schedule also be adopted if it is stricter than the maintenance schedule of your resident country. -Check all ADs as required. -Consider NDT testing your Key airframe parts such as struts. -Buy parts that are approved for aviation use. -Are very thorough when conducting your preflight checks. (Simple example:Jury Struts have been known to come loose). -Know your aircrafts G limits and be sensitive to the fact that she is an old girl. -If you wish to perform manoeuvres seek training and advice about the stresss your aircraft will experience. Do consider gaining your Display Authorisation. As a Club we feel we offer an excellent support network; if in doubt over any matter - ask! Herves tragic accident serves no purpose but to remind that we are not invincible. The Committee
Posted on: Sat, 18 Oct 2014 15:56:39 +0000
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