On February 6, 2009, a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain (registration VH-TFX) operated by CSG Services was involved in an aviation accident near Darwin, Australia during takeoff. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of power in one engine during the initial climb necessitated an emergency ditching offshore. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft experienced an engine failure during its initial climb after departing Darwin Airport, leading to an emergency ditching in shallow water.
What happened
During the initial climb phase following departure from Darwin Airport, the aircraft experienced a failure in one of its engines. In response to the loss of power, the pilot declared an emergency and initiated a return to the airfield. However, the flight could not be completed as planned, and the pilot ultimately attempted to ditch the aircraft.
The aircraft came to rest in shallow water situated approximately 200 metres from the shoreline. Despite the impact, all six occupants managed to evacuate the wreckage without sustaining any injuries. While there were no casualties, the aircraft was determined to be a total loss due to damage sustained during the ditching.
Findings
The incident was triggered by an engine failure occurring shortly after takeoff.
Probable cause
The loss of power in one engine during the initial climb necessitated an emergency ditching offshore.