Summary
The ATSB is investigating an engine fuel starvation event involving a Piper PA-32R-301, registered VH-LPW, about 55 km west of Essendon Airport, Victoria, on 1 May 2026.
While in cruise at 8,000 ft during a flight from Stawell Airport, Victoria, to Essendon Airport, the engine began running roughly. The pilot actioned emergency procedures including switching fuel tanks and diverted the aircraft to Bacchus Marsh where the aircraft landed without further incident. The investigation is continuing.
The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve interviewing the pilot, examination of maintenance records, reviewing any 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-2026-076 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 01/05/2026 |
| Occurrence time and timezone | 06:16 UTC |
| Location | About 55 km west of Essendon Airport |
| State | Victoria |
| Report status | Pending |
| Anticipated completion | Q4 2026 |
| Investigation level | Short |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation phase | Evidence collection |
| Investigation status | Active |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Fuel starvation, Stall warning |
| Occurrence class | Incident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Piper Aircraft Corp |
|---|---|
| Model | PA-32R-301 |
| Registration | VH-LPW |
| Serial number | 32R-8113095 |
| Aircraft operator | Fly2Health |
| Sector | Piston |
| Operation type | Part 91 General operating and flight rules |
| Activity | Commercial air transport-Non-scheduled-Other non-scheduled commercial air transport |
| Departure point | Stawell Airport, Victoria |
| Destination | Essendon Airport, Victoria |
| Injuries | None |
| Damage | Nil |