Roundsounds
I am only faintly familiar with the student body at the operator in question, and I don't know a great many ATOs in that location.
I am wondering why an IFR twin was at such a height over the Mountains that crashing it was a good option.
YES that could be a berko passenger. possibly.
It could also be a practice engine failure or Precautionary search on a test which the student has screwed up, and the ATO or instructor has been forced to say those magic words "Taking over" which of course results in a fail.
Headstrong/proud student or test candidate? Loss of face scenario?
I hope I am wrong because the senior ATOs I know do not deserve to be beaten up while doing their job, much less end up in a bent aeroplane and then in hospital as a result.
This is on the
ABC website:
An elderly passenger tried to take control of a light plane and shut down one its engines as it was flying over regional New South Wales, the pilot has told authorities.