Accredited representative to the Papua New Guinea Accident Investigation Commission’s investigation into an air contamination event involving Bombardier Inc. DHC-8-402, VH-QOE, on 16 March 2020

On 16 March 2020 a Bombardier DHC-8-402 registered VH-QOE, departed Jacksons International Airport, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Shortly after take-off, the flight crew detected fumes in the cockpit. Passing FL 100 on climb, the fumes became stronger and the cabin crew also reported detecting a fume smell in the cabin.

The flight crew donned oxygen masks and levelled off at FL 180. The first officer then made a PAN call and requested a return to Port Moresby. After switching off the number one bleed air, as per the quick reference handbook for smoke and fumes, the flight crew observed smoke emanating from the air vents. The crew switched off the number 2 bleed air and depressurised the cabin once the aircraft had descended below FL 100, and the smoke dissipated.

The Papua New Guinea Accident Investigation Commission (AIC) investigated the incident and requested assistance from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB).

To facilitate this work the ATSB initiated an external investigation under the provisions of the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003. 

The ATSB has now concluded its involvement in the investigation. 

The AIC is responsible for and will administer the release of the final investigation report into this incident.

Any enquiries relating to the investigation should be directed to the Papua New Guinea Accident Investigation Commission.