Engine malfunction involving Gippsland Aeronautics GA-8, VH-LHC, at Djarindjin/Lombadina Airport, Western Australia, on 22 August 2025

The ATSB is investigating an engine malfunction involving Gippsland Aeronautics GA-8, registration VH-LHC, at Djarindjin/Lombadina Airport, Western Australia, on 22 August 2025. 

During approach, the pilot observed a lack of response from normal throttle inputs. The airspeed subsequently increased resulting in a go around. During the climb out, the engine failed to produce full power and the pilot conducted a partial power turnback before cutting the mixture for landing. An engineering inspection identified a missing nut in the throttle linkage cable which had separated in flight.

The draft report internal review process has been completed. The draft report has been distributed to directly involved parties (DIPs) to check factual accuracy and ensure natural justice. Any submissions from those parties will be reviewed and, where considered appropriate, the draft report will be amended accordingly.

Following the external review process, any submissions and amendments to the draft report are internally reviewed. Once approved, the final report is prepared for publication and dissemination and released to DIPs prior to its public release.

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.