The ATSB is investigating a forced landing involving a Cessna 208, registered VH-UMV, near Barwon Heads airport, on 20 October 2023.
During initial climb, the pilot observed an engine malfunction and conducted a forced landing. The aircraft sustained substantial damage and five passengers sustained serious injuries.
In the course of the investigation, the ATSB has identified potential limitations in risk controls and organisational factors relevant to the occurrence that are considered likely to have contributed to the occurrence. Examination of these factors represent a significant increase in the scope of this investigation, and it has been upgraded from Short to Defined as a result (the ATSB's different levels of investigation are detailed here).
The final report has been drafted and is undergoing internal review to ensure the report adequately and accurately reflects the evidence collected, analysis, and agreed findings.
The final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. 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.