Aero Commander 500S Makes Emergency Landing Near Bathurst, NSW – Australia

Date:
08-MAR-2024

Time:
17:39

Type of Aircraft:
Aero Commander 500S

Owner/Operator:
GAM Air

Registration:
VH-MEH

MSN:
3258

Year of Manufacture:
1975

Engine Model:
Textron Lycoming IO-540

Fatalities:
0 / Occupants: 1

Aircraft Damage:
None

Location:
near Bathurst, NSW – Australia

Phase:
En route

Nature:
Unknown

Departure Airport:
Bathurst-Raglan Airport, NSW (BHS/YBTH)

Destination Airport:
Bankstown Airport, NSW (BWU/YSBK)

Circumstances:

**An Aero Commander 500S operated by GAM Air made an unexpected emergency landing in a paddock near the Great Western Highway close to Bathurst, NSW, at approximately 17:39 on Friday. The pilot, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft, skillfully managed the situation without sustaining any injuries. Despite the precarious nature of the emergency landing, the aircraft was reported to have no damage. The incident attracted attention from local emergency services, although it was determined to be unrelated to a simultaneous road incident nearby. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has acknowledged the occurrence and initiated an investigation to ascertain the specifics of the emergency landing, including any potential mechanical or navigational factors involved.**