Takeoff wrecks plane on closed runway

The ATSB is investigating why a Sydney dental prosthetist tried to takeoff from a runway that was closed for repairs.

The ATSB is investigating why a pilot tried to takeoff from a closed runway at Gunnedah, resulting in his Merlin III twin turboprop sustaining extensive damage. Picture: ATSB

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is investigating why a Sydney dental prosthetist tried to takeoff from a northern NSW runway, that was closed for repairs.

Bondi-based Leon Dobrinski had landed his Swearingen Merlin 3 turboprop at Gunnedah on the afternoon of August 19 before excavation works began on the runway.

Although the local council had submitted a NOTAM (notice to airmen) about the runway closure between 7am and 3pm on August 20, Mr Dobrinski set off on his takeoff run about 12.25pm that day.

According to the ATSB, Mr Dobrinski noticed something on the runway in the distance but thought it was just patches on the pavement.

As the aircraft accelerated, it became apparent that there were two holes excavated from the runway.

“The pilot attempted to avoid the holes but was unable to clear them with the left main undercarriage,” said the ATSB investigation brief.

“The aircraft sustained damage to the left main undercarriage assembly that resulted in it collapsing and the left propeller striking the ground. The aircraft left the runway and came to rest outside the flight strip.”

The report noted that there were no visual cues to indicate works in progress.

A white cross to signify the runway was closed, was in the signal area near the windsock, which was only visible to landing aircraft, the ATSB said.

Mr Dobrinski was not hurt but his plane remained at Gunnedah Airport, he told The Australian.

The Merlin was a familiar sight at the airport and others in regional NSW including Dubbo, Moree, Mudgee and Tamworth with Mr Dobrinski paying regular visits in the course of his work.

He said the matter was currently in the hands of his insurer, solicitor and the ATSB and declined to comment further.

The ATSB was initially preparing an occurrence brief on the incident but had since upgraded to an investigation which was expected to be completed by mid-2021.

In the course of the investigation, aerodrome staff would be interviewed and pilot statements reviewed, the ATSB said.