Pilot distracted by loose engine cover before crash

A recent report has revealed that a pilot who died in a crash at Jandakot Airport last year may have been distracted by a loose engine cover. The 73-year-old was flying a De Havilland Chipmunk when the incident occurred on April 26, 2024. The pilot took off just after 1 PM and soon attempted a left turn to return to the airport. He declared a mayday, but as he turned, the aircraft began to stall and crashed shortly afterward. Despite being rushed to the hospital with serious injuries, the pilot could not be saved. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) conducted an investigation and found that the pilot did not secure the engine cover latches before take-off. Footage and witness accounts showed that the cover flapped open during the flight. Although this would not have directly affected control of the aircraft, it likely distracted the pilot, creating a "high cognitive workload," according to ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell. The investigation also reported that the aircraft's design included 12 incorrect rivets that compromised its safety. Half of these rivets were only about a third of the required strength and had sheared in the crash. However, investigators could not confirm if this impacted the pilot's chances of survival. Mitchell emphasized the importance of thorough pre-flight checks and reminded pilots about risks associated with flying at low heights and high angles of bank. He urged aircraft owners and maintainers to ensure any modifications meet safety specifications.