The ATSB is investigating a ditching involving a Cessna Aircraft Company 421C, registered VH‑VPY, about 50 km east of the Sunshine Coast Airport, Queensland, on 10 November 2023.
The aircraft was conducting a ferry flight from the Sunshine Coast Airport to Pago Pago, American Samoa, with 2 pilots on board. The crew reported engine issues to air traffic control and an intent to return the aircraft to the Sunshine Coast.
During the return, the aircraft was unable to maintain altitude and the crew ditched the aircraft onto the ocean, about 50 km from the coast. The 2 crew exited the aircraft into a life raft and were winched aboard a rescue helicopter, while the aircraft was observed beginning to sink.
The ATSB has completed the evidence collection and analysis phases of the investigation and is drafting the final report.
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.