The ATSB is investigating the collision with terrain involving an Insitu X200 ScanEagle unmanned aircraft system (UAS) near Woleebee Creek, Queensland, on 9 January 2019.
The UAS was being used for aerial survey. The pilot reported that soon after launch, at about 600 ft above the ground, the UAS displayed airspeed abnormalities, then proceeded to stall. The UAS was recovered from the stall however the airspeed abnormalities persisted and the UAS once again stalled and collided with terrain. There were no reported injuries to any persons and the UAS was destroyed.
As part of the investigation, the ATSB will interview the pilots and other crew, review video footage, and obtain technical data, operational procedures, maintenance and inspection records.
A 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 appropriate action can be taken.
Source: ATSB