Safety issue

Safety issue description

The Regional Express dispatch procedures and training did not explain the appearance, function and importance of the propeller straps or orientation of propeller blades. This provided airport services officers limited guidance on how the propellor strap was used and how to identify it had been removed. 

Issue number AO-2024-059-SI-01
Issue owner Regional Express Pty Ltd (Rex)
Transport function Aviation: Air transport
Issue status Closed – Adequately addressed
Date issue released 14/08/2025
Issue status justification

Proactive action taken by Regional Express to update its training material has addressed the identified safety issue

Safety action

Action type Proactive action
Action number AO-2024-059-PSA-02
Organisation Regional Express Pty Ltd (Rex)
Action date 04/06/2025
Action description

Regional Express has updated its receipt and dispatch training for airport services officers (ASOs), with the updated training providing images of the propeller strap and strap extensions fitted to a Saab 340. The updated training states that ground staff must directly check the propeller straps prior to signalling engine start clearances, and also explains that the propeller orientation (in dressed or undressed position) may be used as a supplementary check to indicate if the propeller strap has been removed. Regional Express has also disseminated an Airport Advisory with these images and information.

Action status Closed