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Wed, Nov 28, 2018

Australian Charter Pilot Fell Asleep At The Controls

Flew Over 24 Nautical Miles Beyond His Intended Destination

The Australian Transportation Safety Bureau is investigating an incident in which a pilot fell asleep during flight and overshot his destination by nearly 25 nautical miles.

According to information posted on the ATSB website, the body is investigating a pilot incapacitation involving a Piper PA-31 Navajo operated by Vortex Air, near King Island Airport, Tasmania on 8 November 2018.

The aircraft was conducting a freight flight from Devonport Airport to King Island Airport.

During the cruise, the pilot, who was the only person on board, fell asleep resulting in the aircraft overflying King Island by 46 km (24.8 nautical miles).

As part of the investigation, the ATSB says it will interview the pilot and review operational procedures.

The ATSB describes the occurrence as a "serious operational incident". Newsweek reports that the Bureau expects to have a final report published by March of 2019.

(Source: ATSB and as cited. Image from file. Not incident airplane)

FMI: ATSB, Newsweek

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