What happened
During the early stages of flight from Rottnest Island Airport, a twin-engine aircraft experienced a significant bird strike. The incident occurred while the plane was performing its initial climb immediately after departure. Following the impact with a bird, the aircraft lost control and descended into a salt lake situated in the vicinity of the airport.
Upon hitting the ground, the aircraft sustained heavy damage and was completely destroyed. There were six people on board the aircraft at the time of the accident. While the impact was severe, all six occupants survived the crash, though they sustained various injuries during the event.
Findings
- The primary event leading to the loss of control was a bird strike during the climb phase.
- The crash site was identified as a salt lake near the departure airfield.