In August 2024, a Saab 340B aircraft was being operated on a scheduled air passenger transport flight from Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, to Sydney, New South Wales.
During the approach to Sydney, the flight crew reported hearing a sound consistent with a pressurisation issue and detected an increase in cabin pressure. A normal approach and landing was conducted. Post-flight inspection found a VHF antenna had separated from the fuselage with an associated fracture of the fuselage skin. The antenna remained attached to the aircraft by its cabling.
The ATSB received a request for assistance from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to conduct a technical examination of the antenna installation. The ATSB commenced an external investigation under the provisions of the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003.
The ATSB has concluded the examination of the installation of the antenna and provided CASA with an examination report.
Any enquiries relating to the investigation should be directed to CASA.