Summary
The ATSB is investigating a runway incursion involving a Fairchild Industries SA227-DC, registered VH-HPE, at Mackay Airport, Queensland, on 12 November 2025.
During the take-off run, the pilot of the Fairchild SA227 observed a safety vehicle on the runway and overflew the vehicle in close proximity.
The final report has been drafted and is undergoing internal review to ensure the report adequately and accurately reflects the evidence collected, analysis, and agreed findings.
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-2025-067 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 12/11/2025 |
| Occurrence time and timezone | 20:00 Australian Eastern Standard Time |
| Location | Mackay Airport |
| State | Queensland |
| Report status | Pending |
| Anticipated completion | Q3 2026 |
| Investigation level | Defined |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation phase | Final report: Internal review |
| Investigation status | Active |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Near collision, Runway incursion |
| Occurrence class | Serious Incident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Fairchild Industries Inc |
|---|---|
| Model | SA227-DC |
| Registration | VH-HPE |
| Serial number | DC-823B |
| Aircraft operator | Sharp Aviation Pty Ltd |
| Sector | Turboprop |
| Operation type | Part 121 Air transport operations - larger aeroplanes |
| Activity | Commercial air transport-Scheduled-Scheduled freight only |
| Departure point | Mackay Airport, Queensland |
| Destination | Brisbane Airport, Queensland |
| Injuries | None |
| Damage | Nil |