The following statement can be attributed to ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell:
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has commenced a transport safety investigation into a runway excursion involving a single-engine passenger aircraft with a pilot and six passengers on board at Rat Island, Western Australia, on Thursday morning.
During landing at Rat Island it was reported that the GA8 Airvan landed long, exited the runway and came to rest in the water, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft. No injuries were reported.
ATSB investigators will collect and examine relevant evidence, including interviewing the pilot, analysing relevant weather data, photographs, aircraft operator procedures and maintenance records.
The ATSB will publish a final report, detailing contributing factors and any identified safety issues, at the conclusion of the investigation.
However, should any critical safety issues be identified at any stage during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties so appropriate safety action can be taken.