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 ATSB has commenced the examination and analysis of the initial evidence collected.
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.
Last updated:
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | AO-2026-088 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 07/08/2026 |
| Occurrence time and timezone | 0730 Australian Central Standard Time |
| Location | Darwin Airport |
| State | Northern Territory |
| Report status | Pending |
| Anticipated completion | Q1 2027 |
| Investigation level | Short |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation phase | Examination and analysis |
| 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 |