Hawk Incident at Williamtown

[Guest Darren Masters]

HAWK INCIDENT AT RAAF BASE WILLIAMTOWN

 

At approximately midday today, a Hawk 127 aircraft from 76 Squadron ran

 

off the side of the runway at RAAF Base Williamtown after a braking

 

problem occurred upon landing.

 

After touch down, the pilot noticed a problem with normal braking of

 

the aircraft and conducted emergency procedures. During the subsequent

 

deceleration, the main tyres deflated causing direction control

 

problems that resulted in the Hawk leaving the bitumen runway.

 

The pilot, who did not sustain any injuries, had been conducting a

 

routine training sortie prior to the incident. Air Force Emergency

 

crews including fire fighters and medical personnel responded

 

immediately.

 

A RAAF Hawk maintenance crew also responded to assess any aircraft

 

damage prior to moving the aircraft away from the runway vicinity.

 

Air Force aircrew are well trained to handle emergencies such as this.

 

The incident is now the subject of a safety investigation.

 

Media contact:

 

Defence Media Liaison: 02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664