ATSB probes Torres Strait emergency landing
Richard Dinnen - Queensland Editor |
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has begun an investigation into a charter flight that made an emergency landing on a road in the Torres Strait after its engines failed.
The twin-engine Pilatus Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander aircraft developed engine problems during a flight to Horn Island on Monday.
It’s understood the aircraft was operating a school charter flight. In a statement, the ATSB said the aircraft had nine people on board.
“Both engines failed during the cruise phase of the flight. The pilot diverted towards Kubin Airport on Moa Island and conducted an off-airport landing west of the airport.
“ The pilot and passengers sustained minor injuries.
“A final report, detailing contributing factors and any identified safety issues, will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.”
The aircraft sustained significant damage in the emergency landing.
Torres Strait Air CEO, Daniel Takai, confirmed his company operated the charter flight.
“The passengers onboard the aircraft followed the pilot’s instructions to brace for landing and to evacuate the aircraft after the emergency landing.
“Our thoughts go out to those persons onboard the aircraft, all their families, and all our people affected by this aircraft incident.”.
