Summary
The ATSB is investigating an engine fuel starvation event involving a Piper PA-32R-301, registered VH-LPW, about 9 km south of Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome, 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 ATSB has completed the evidence collection and analysis phases of the investigation and is drafting the final report.
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.
Last updated:
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | AO-2026-076 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 01/05/2026 |
| Occurrence time and timezone | 06:16 UTC |
| Location | About 9 km south of Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome |
| State | Victoria |
| Report status | Pending |
| Anticipated completion | Q4 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, Engine failure or malfunction, Fuel starvation |
| Occurrence class | Incident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Piper Aircraft Corp |
|---|---|
| Model | PA-32R-301 |
| Registration | VH-LPW |
| Serial number | 32R-8113095 |
| Sector | Piston |
| Operation type | Part 91 General operating and flight rules |
| Activity | General aviation / Recreational-Own business travel |
| Departure point | Stawell Airport, Victoria |
| Destination | Essendon Airport, Victoria |
| Injuries | None |
| Damage | Nil |