Incident
On 17 March 2017, a Saab 340B aircraft, registered as VH-NRX, experienced the in-flight loss of its right propeller approximately 19 km (10 NM) south-west of Sydney, New South Wales (NSW). The loss was caused by a fracture of the propeller shaft on the right engine propeller reduction gearbox (PGB). The shaft fracture led to the separation of the propeller from the aircraft.
Response
Following the propeller separation, the flight crew performed a single-engine landing at Sydney Airport without further incident. The crew exhibited a high level of professionalism in their response to the engine failure and loss of the propeller. They demonstrated effective communication and coordination, promptly applying relevant checklists and procedures.
Investigation
Investigation into the incident focused on the failure of the propeller shaft. The analysis centered on the mechanical failure that resulted in the propeller separation.