Casualties unknown

2017-04-22: Gippsland Aeronautics Pty Ltd GA-8 (VH-AJZ) — Gibb River (ALA), Western Australia

Gibb River (ALA), Western Australia

On April 22, 2017, a Gippsland Aeronautics Pty Ltd GA-8 (registration VH-AJZ) was involved in an aviation accident near Gibb River (ALA), Western Australia. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: These findings should not be read as apportioning blame or liability to any particular organisation or individual. The cause of the engine failure and fire could not be determined. This summary draws on records from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB).

Sourcesthe Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB)Primary reportUpdated 1779789392Data APIEditorial standards

An engine failure and subsequent fire occurred during engine start. The extent of damage prevented determination of the failure and fire causes. The emergency procedure was not fully followed, allowing the fire to intensify.

Engine Failure and Fire

During an engine start, an engine failure occurred followed by a fire. The fire was present on the nose wheel below the engine, indicating that it was likely fed by a fluid. The extent of damage to both the engine and the aircraft was such that the reasons for the engine failure could not be determined. Similarly, the damage prevented identification of the fire's origin.

Emergency Procedure Execution

After the engine fire was identified, the engine was shut down, and cranking was not continued in accordance with the emergency procedure. It was noted that continued cranking may have extinguished the fire before it became unmanageable. Following engine shutdown, the fuel shutoff valve was not closed, which would have provided a barrier between the fuel tanks and the engine. Failure to complete this step of the engine fire during start emergency procedure increased the likelihood of the fire and allowed it to intensify.

Investigation Findings

The investigation was limited by the extensive damage. No specific cause for the engine failure or the fire was established. The incomplete execution of the emergency procedure was documented as a contributing factor to the fire's progression.