Summary
The ATSB is investigating a landing gear issue involving a Saab 340, registered VH-VEZ, at Canberra Airport, Australian Capital Territory, on 29 January 2026.
At the point of rotation during take-off, the inboard wheel of the left main landing gear detached from the aircraft. The flight crew returned the aircraft to Canberra.
The ATSB has completed the evidence collection and analysis phases of the investigation and is drafting the final report.
To date, the ATSB investigation has included:
- interviewing the flight crew
- examination of maintenance records
- inspection of the main wheel assembly and associated components
- analysis of evidence.
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.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | AO-2026-008 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 29/01/2026 |
| Location | Canberra Airport |
| State | Australian Capital Territory |
| Report status | Pending |
| Anticipated completion | Q2 2026 |
| Investigation level | Short |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation phase | Final report: Drafting |
| Investigation status | Active |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Diversion/return, Landing gear/indication, Objects falling from aircraft |
| Occurrence class | Incident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Saab Aircraft Co. |
|---|---|
| Model | 340B |
| Registration | VH-VEZ |
| Serial number | 340B-450 |
| Aircraft operator | Vee H Aviation Pty Ltd |
| Sector | Turboprop |
| Operation type | Part 121 Air transport operations - larger aeroplanes |
| Departure point | Canberra Airport, Australian Capital Territory |
| Destination | Williamtown Airport, New South Wales |
| Damage | Minor |