Engine failure during take-off involving Saab 340, VH-ZPN, at Adelaide Airport, South Australia, on 8 October 2025

AO-2025-060

Summary

The ATSB is investigating an engine failure during take-off involving a Rex Airlines Saab 340, VH-ZPN, at Adelaide Airport on 8 October 2025.

During take-off, the crew received abnormal left engine indications and rejected the take-off. During the rejected take-off, the left engine failed. 

The evidence collection phase of the investigation involved interviewing involved parties, examination of maintenance records, retrieving and reviewing recorded data, examining any recovered components, and the collection of other relevant information.

The ATSB has now commenced the examination and analysis of the initial evidence collected.

A 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.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number AO-2025-060
Occurrence date 08/10/2025
Location Adelaide Airport
State South Australia
Report status Pending
Anticipated completion Q2 2026
Investigation level Short
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation phase Evidence collection
Investigation status Active
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Engine failure or malfunction
Occurrence class Serious Incident
Highest injury level None

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Saab Aircraft Co.
Model 340B
Registration VH-ZPN
Serial number 340B-384
Aircraft operator Regional Express
Sector Turboprop
Operation type Part 121 Air transport operations - larger aeroplanes
Departure point Adelaide Airport, South Australia
Destination Broken Hill Airport, New South Wales
Damage Minor