Summary
The ATSB is investigating a fuel exhaustion event and forced landing involving a Cessna 207, registered VH-UBW, 6.5 km north of Darwin Airport, Northern Territory, on 24 June 2026.
During the flight, the engine failed, reportedly due to fuel exhaustion, and the pilot conducted a forced landing on a beach.
The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve interviewing involved parties, examination of maintenance records, retrieving and reviewing recorded data, 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-2026-084 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 24/06/2026 |
| Occurrence time and timezone | 17:13 Australian Eastern Standard Time |
| Location | 6.5 km north of 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 | Forced/precautionary landing, Fuel exhaustion |
| Occurrence class | Serious Incident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Cessna Aircraft Company |
|---|---|
| Model | 207 |
| Registration | VH-UBW |
| Serial number | 20700137 |
| Aircraft operator | Air Frontier Pty Ltd |
| Sector | Piston |
| Operation type | Part 135 Air transport operations - smaller aeroplanes |
| Activity | Commercial air transport-Non-scheduled-Passenger transport charters |
| Injuries | None |
| Damage | Nil |