Runway incursion involving Fairchild SA227-DC, VH-HPE, Mackay Airport, Queensland, on 12 November 2025

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

To date, the ATSB investigation has included:

• interviewing the pilot and the driver of the vehicle
• collection of flight data, including the flight data recorder and available ADS-B
• review of various CTAF recordings
• examining available closed-circuit television (CCTV).

In the course of the investigation, the ATSB has identified potential limitations in risk controls that potentially contributed to the occurrence. Examination of these factors represent a significant increase in the scope of this investigation, and it has been upgraded from Short to Defined as a result (the ATSB's different levels of investigation are detailed here).

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.