Summary
The ATSB is investigating an avionics/flight instrumentation issue involving a Rex Airlines Saab 340B, VH-ZRM, about 7.5 km north-north-east of Townsville Airport, Queensland, on 19 November 2025.
During initial climb, the crew detected a fault with the flight management system (FMS), and the aircraft subsequently did not adhere to the tracking requirements of the standard instrument departure (SID). The investigation is continuing.
The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve interviewing involved parties, retrieving and reviewing available recorded data, and the collection of other relevant information.
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-2025-072 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 19/11/2025 |
| Location | About 7.5 km north-north-east of Townsville Airport |
| State | Queensland |
| 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 | Avionics/flight instruments, Operational non-compliance |
| Occurrence class | Incident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Saab Aircraft Co. |
|---|---|
| Model | 340B |
| Registration | VH-ZRM |
| Serial number | 340B400 |
| Aircraft operator | Regional Express Pty Ltd |
| Sector | Turboprop |
| Operation type | Part 121 Air transport operations - larger aeroplanes |
| Departure point | Townsville Airport, Queensland |
| Destination | Hughenden Aerodrome, Queensland |
| Damage | Nil |