Runway incursion and near collision involving Cessna 402C, VH-HMG, and a safety vehicle, at Jandakot Airport, Western Australia, on 3 March 2026

AO-2026-064

Summary

The ATSB is investigating a runway incursion and near collision involving a Cessna 402C, registered VH-HMG, and a safety vehicle, at Jandakot Airport, Western Australia, on 3 March 2026.

During take-off for an air transport operation flight with 4 passengers on board, the sole pilot of the Cessna 402 observed a safety vehicle enter the runway in front of the aircraft. The aircraft was above the maximum speed for a rejected take-off and took off above 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 witnesses and involved parties
  • retrieving and reviewing recorded data
  • 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-2026-064
Occurrence date 03/03/2026
Location Jandakot Airport
State Western Australia
Report status Pending
Anticipated completion Q3 2026
Investigation level Short
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation phase Examination and analysis
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 Cessna Aircraft Company
Model 402C
Registration VH-HMG
Serial number 402C1002
Aircraft operator Paul Lyons Aviation Pty Ltd
Sector Piston
Operation type Part 135 Air transport operations - smaller aeroplanes
Departure point Jandakot Airport, Western Australia
Destination Bunbury Airport, Western Australia
Damage Nil