On 18 November 2009, an Israel Aircraft Industries Westwind 1124A aircraft, registered VH-NGA, ditched in the ocean 3 NM (6 km) to the west of Norfolk Island. The six occupants evacuated the sinking aircraft and were later recovered by a rescue vessel from Norfolk Island.

The flight crew had been unable to conduct a landing at Norfolk Island Airport because they could not see the runway after conducting four instrument approaches. The crew then elected to ditch before the aircraft's fuel supply was exhausted.

Following the event, the aircraft operator initiated a program of checking and revalidation for the company's commercial Westwind pilots.

The investigation is continuing.

Safety Actions for this investigation