The ATSB is investigating an unreliable airspeed indication occurrence involving a Sharp Airlines Fairchild SA227 Metroliner, VH-UZN, at Townsville Airport, Queensland, on 10 February 2025.
The aircraft was operating freight flight SH103 from Townsville to Brisbane, with 2 crew on board.
During the take-off, the crew identified that the captain and first officer’s air speed indicators showed different values, and both appeared to be reading lower than expected. Referencing the GPS indicated speed of 110 kt the captain instructed the first officer (pilot flying) to continue the take-off, considering this to be the safest option. Once airborne the first officer heard a flapping noise and determined that the aircraft’s pitot tube covers were still installed. The crew made a return to Townsville Airport, during which the first officer’s air speed indicator seemed to return to normal operation. The aircraft landed without further incident.
A post-flight inspection confirmed that the pitot covers had remained in place.
The occurrence was not reported to the ATSB at the time, as required by the Transport Safety Investigation Regulations. When the ATSB was made aware of the incident, a transport safety investigation was commenced.
The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve interviewing the involved parties, examination of operational documentation, retrieving 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.