The ATSB is investigating a smoke in the cockpit and descent below lowest safe altitude event involving Fairchild Industries SA227-DC, VH-WBQ, 25 km north-east of Perth Airport, Western Australia on 15 August 2024. The aircraft was operated by Skippers Aviation as flight PY 5003, scheduled from Perth to Bronzewing, Western Australia.
During climb after take-off, hot air and smoke were observed emanating from the cockpit ventilation system and the crew elected to return to Perth. During the return, the aircraft descended below the minimum safe altitude. The investigation is continuing.
The draft report internal review process has been completed. The draft report has been distributed to directly involved parties (DIPs) to check factual accuracy and ensure natural justice. Any submissions from those parties will be reviewed and, where considered appropriate, the draft report will be amended accordingly.
Following the external review process, any submissions and amendments to the draft report are internally reviewed. Once approved, the final report is prepared for publication and dissemination and released to DIPs prior to its public release.
Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.