Crash of a Piper PA-31 Navajo Chieftain in Darwin
Date & Time:
Feb 6, 2009 at 0840 LT
Registration:
VH-TFX
Survivors:
Yes
Schedule:
Darwin – Maningrida
MSN:
31-8152143
YOM:
1981
Crew on board:
1
Crew fatalities:
Pax on board:
5
Pax fatalities:
Other fatalities:
Total fatalities:
0
Circumstances:
Shortly after takeoff from Darwin Airport, while in initial climb, one of the engine failed. The pilot declared an emergency and elected to return but eventually attempted to ditch the aircraft that came to rest in shallow water about 200 metres offshore. All six occupants escaped uninjured while the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
![](/sites/default/files/import/uploads/2009/02/VH-TFX-1.jpg)
![](/sites/default/files/import/uploads/2009/02/VH-TFX-2.jpg)
![](/sites/default/files/import/uploads/2009/02/VH-TFX-3.jpg)
![](/sites/default/files/crash/images/VH-TFX-4.jpg)