Aircraft Ditched Offshore After Engine Failure During Initial Climb from Darwin Airport (VH-TFX)

Incident Overview Shortly after takeoff from Darwin Airport, the aircraft experienced an engine failure while in initial climb. The pilot declared an emergency and initially elected to return, but the aircraft was ultimately ditched in shallow water approximately 200 metres offshore. ## Outcome All six occupants escaped the aircraft uninjured. The aircraft sustained damage beyond repair and came to rest in the shallow water area offshore of Darwin Airport. ## Operational Details The incident occurred during the initial climb phase following departure from Darwin Airport. The pilot's decision to declare an emergency and attempt a return was followed by a ditching in shallow water. No injuries were reported among the occupants.