Collision with terrain involving Beech Aircraft Corp 58, VH-AKH, 61 km north-west of Groote Eylandt Airport, Northern Territory, on 25 August 2026

Summary

The ATSB is investigating a collision with water involving a Beech Baron 58, registered VH-AKH, 61 km north-west of Groote Eylandt Airport, Northern Territory, on 25 August 2026.

The ATSB has commenced the examination and analysis of the initial evidence collected, and to date the investigation has included:

• analysis of Northern Territory Police Force diver footage of the wreckage
• review of the available flight data from the accident flight and other flights involving the pilot
• examination of closed-circuit television (CCTV) video from Gove airport
• review of the radio transmissions from Numbulwar and Gove airports
• interviewing the involved persons including witnesses, next of kin and other relevant parties
• retained the pilot records including their flying history, training and planning records
• retained the aircraft maintenance records
• reviewed air traffic control data.

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.