Air Sustainment Charter Service Delayed in Darwin

A Middle East Area of Operation (MEAO) Air Sustainment Charter service which departed Sydney on Tuesday 28 February was delayed as a result of a heavy landing in Darwin caused by weather and wind effect.  No one was hurt in the incident.

The aircraft was due to fly approximately 115 ADF personnel to the MEAO and return with another group of 61 ADF members.

The return flight was delayed for 24 hours while a replacement aircraft was flown from the United Kingdom direct to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Any delay in getting our people home is regrettable. The replacement aircraft landed in Perth early this morning and all the passengers are returning to home locations via domestic commercial air.

The incident aircraft is currently being held in Darwin subject to a technical assessment by the aircraft operator and the Australian Transport Safety Bureau will conduct an investigation.

The Air Charter Service Contractor, Adagold, has consistently met and continues to meet its MEAO Air Sustainment contractual obligations to the full satisfaction of Defence.

Media Contact:
Defence Media Operations 02 6127 1999