Summary
The ATSB is investigating an engine fuel starvation event involving a Piper PA‑31‑350, VH‑PGO, on approach to Meekatharra Airport, Western Australia, on 5 June 2025.
During the approach, the pilot received multiple fuel flow warnings on the no 2 engine followed by associated engine surging and aircraft yaw. The pilot conducted initial actions and secured the engine. The post-flight inspection revealed the engine had lost power due to fuel starvation.
The ATSB has completed drafting the report and it is in external review.
The final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.
Last updated:
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | AO-2025-026 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 05/06/2025 |
| Occurrence time and timezone | 1031 Australian Western Standard Time |
| Location | 28 km west of Meekatharra Airport |
| State | Western Australia |
| Report status | Pending |
| Anticipated completion | Q2 2026 |
| Investigation level | Defined |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation phase | Final report: Approval |
| Investigation status | Active |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Abnormal engine indications, Engine failure or malfunction, Fuel starvation |
| Occurrence class | Incident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Piper Aircraft Corp |
|---|---|
| Model | PA-31-350 |
| Registration | VH-PGO |
| Serial number | 31-7852109 |
| Aircraft operator | Chrishine Nominees Pty Ltd |
| Sector | Piston |
| Operation type | Part 135 Air transport operations - smaller aeroplanes |
| Activity | Commercial air transport-Non-scheduled-Passenger transport charters |
| Departure point | Carnarvon Airport, Western Australia |
| Destination | Meekatharra Airport, Western Australia |
| Injuries | None |
| Damage | Nil |