Summary
The ATSB is investigating an uncommanded acceleration to full power and subsequent in-flight shutdown involving a Cessna 208 Caravan, VH-KSA, near Kalumburu Aerodrome, Western Australia, on 11 December 2025.
The pilot reduced engine power in a late downwind position on final approach to Kalumburu Aerodrome when the engine had an uncommanded rapid acceleration to full power with associated check torque and check temperature warnings on the master warning panel.
The pilot manipulated the power lever with no engine power response to inputs. The pilot elected to shut the engine down, feather the propeller and conduct a power off glide in landing. The landing was successfully completed without incident.
The evidence collection will include testing and examination of the engine, interviewing the flight crew, examination of flight data if available, operational records and the other records as required.
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-2025-075 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 11/12/2025 |
| Location | Near Kalumburu Aerodrome |
| State | Western 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 | Abnormal engine indications, Engine failure or malfunction |
| Occurrence class | Serious Incident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Cessna Aircraft Company |
|---|---|
| Model | 208B |
| Registration | VH-KSA |
| Serial number | 208B0516 |
| Aircraft operator | Aviair Pty Ltd |
| Sector | Turboprop |
| Operation type | Part 135 Air transport operations - smaller aeroplanes |
| Departure point | Broome Airport, Western Australia |
| Destination | Kalumburu Aerodrome, Western Australia |
| Damage | Nil |