2019-04-14: Pilatus Aircraft Ltd PC-12/47E (VH-OWJ) — Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Western Operations) — 4 km west of Merredin, Western Australia
On April 14, 2019, a Pilatus Aircraft Ltd PC-12/47E (registration VH-OWJ) operated by Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (Western Operations) was involved in an aviation accident near 4 km west of Merredin, Western Australia. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: These findings should not be read as apportioning blame or liability to any particular organisation or individual. Safety issues, or system problems, are highlighted in bold to emphasise their importance. This summary draws on records from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB).
During a low-priority medical transport, a PC-12 pilot experienced a pitch trim runaway that persisted despite corrective actions. The pilot coordinated with a doctor to land safely.
Incident Overview
During the early stages of a medical transport flight from Merredin, the pilot encountered a pitch trim runaway emergency. The pilot attempted to stop the runaway but was unsuccessful, subsequently struggling to control the aircraft for the remainder of the flight. The flight was a patient transfer classified as not high priority, and the aircraft was serviceable prior to departure.
Emergency Response
Facing persistent trim issues, the pilot made a decision to enlist the assistance of a doctor on board. By coordinating their control inputs, the pilot and doctor managed to land the aircraft safely.
Pilot and Aircraft Information
The pilot held the necessary qualifications for the flight and had approximately seven months of experience operating the PC-12 type in similar operations. The takeoff occurred just after midnight during a night shift, but there were no indications of pilot fatigue. The investigation into the event continues to identify important safety considerations.