Summary
The ATSB is investigating a fuel starvation event involving a Piper PA-32, VH-JFC, near Rottnest Island Airport, Western Australia, on 1 May 2026.
Shortly after take-off, at an altitude of about 1,000 ft, the pilot detected a partial power loss and elected to return to Rottnest Island Airport. The pilot reported initiating troubleshooting checks, which included activating the fuel pump and selecting the right fuel tank. Engine power was restored and the pilot proceeded to land on runway 27 at Rottnest Island Airport.
The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve:
- interviewing involved parties
- retrieving and reviewing recorded data
- 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-2026-075 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 01/05/2026 |
| Occurrence time and timezone | 16:30 Australian Western Standard Time |
| Location | Near Rottnest Island |
| State | Western Australia |
| 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 | Diversion/return, Engine failure or malfunction, Fuel starvation |
| Occurrence class | Serious Incident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Piper Aircraft Corp |
|---|---|
| Model | PA-32-260 |
| Registration | VH-JFC |
| Serial number | 32-7100025 |
| Aircraft operator | Wadjemup Aerial Service Pty Ltd |
| Sector | Piston |
| Operation type | Part 135 Air transport operations - smaller aeroplanes |
| Activity | Commercial air transport-Non-scheduled-Passenger transport charters |
| Departure point | Rottnest Island Airport, Western Australia |
| Destination | Jandakot Airport, Western Australia |
| Injuries | None |
| Damage | Nil |