What happened
During a flight originating from Eagle Farm Airport in Brisbane, a twin-engine aircraft experienced a significant mechanical failure while traveling toward Armidale Airport via Glen Innes. While in transit, one of the engines ignited, resulting in a fire that produced heavy smoke throughout the cockpit area.
In response to the emergency, the aircraft descended and impacted the ground at a property owned by the Zanatta family near Pozieres, situated within the Southern Downs Region of Queensland. The impact occurred on the belly of the plane, causing extensive structural damage to the airframe. Despite the severity of the crash, there were zero fatalities among the occupants, as both the pilot and the three passengers escaped without injury.
Findings
- An engine fire occurred during the flight phase.
- Smoke from the combustion filled the cockpit, impacting visibility and cabin conditions.