Overview
- The 1967 Piper PA-28 on a navigation training flight from Wollongong lost power around 1,600 feet after cylinder No. 3’s exhaust valve broke away.
- The instructor initially aimed for Long Reef golf course but diverted to closer Mona Vale as engine RPM continued to fall.
- On final approach, a right turn to avoid golf course facilities led to a heavy landing with a dropped right wing and substantial damage.
- The student pilot sustained minor injuries and the instructor was unhurt, according to the ATSB and emergency responders.
- With the specific cause of the valve failure undetermined, the ATSB cited existing Textron Lycoming maintenance guidance and noted the operator’s revisions to emergency briefings and instructor competency checks.