The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has commenced a transport safety investigation into the forced landing of a Cessna 208 Caravan skydiving aircraft, carrying a pilot and 17 passengers, near Barwon Heads on Friday morning.
During initial climb after take-off from Barwon Heads, the pilot observed an engine malfunction and conducted a forced landing. during which the aircraft was substantially damaged.
ATSB investigators have commenced early evidence collection and assessment activities, including gathering information from first responders and other stakeholders to inform the scope of investigation activities.
The evidence collection phase of the investigation will also involve interviewing witnesses and involved parties, and reviewing recorded data and maintenance records.
The ATSB asks anyone who may have witnessed or has video footage of the aircraft at any phase of the flight to make contact via the witness form on our website: atsb.gov.au/witness at their earliest opportunity.