Summary
The ATSB is investigating an aircraft preparation event involving a Raytheon B200, registered VH-ZCI, at Darwin Airport, Northern Territory, on 7 August 2026.
During the post-flight inspection, the flight crew observed that the engine intake bungs had not been removed from the aircraft prior to operating the previous 2 sectors. The engine intake bungs had shifted from the main intake entry point to the bypass doors.
The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve interviewing involved parties 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-2026-088 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 07/08/2026 |
| Occurrence time and timezone | 07:30 Australian Central Standard Time |
| Location | Darwin Airport |
| State | Northern Territory |
| 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 | Aircraft preparation |
| Occurrence class | Incident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Raytheon Aircraft Company |
|---|---|
| Model | B200 |
| Registration | VH-ZCI |
| Serial number | BB-1875 |
| Aircraft operator | Careflight Limited |
| Sector | Turboprop |
| Operation type | Part 135 Air transport operations - smaller aeroplanes |
| Activity | Commercial air transport-Non-scheduled-Medical transport |
| Departure point | Darwin Airport, Northern Territory |
| Destination | Tindal Airport, Northern Territory |
| Injuries | None |
| Damage | Nil |