Ball Bay plane crash investigation discontinued after examination of out-of-date safety devices

The investigation into a fatal Christmas Eve plane crash has been discontinued, after it was revealed the aircraft had multiple defects.

The investigation into a Christmas Eve plane crash that took the life of a passenger has been discontinued.

Emergency services were called to Ball Bay after a light plane crashed in an emergency landing on December 24, 2021.

Tragically 83-year-old Gerardus Miltenburg died at the scene, and the 65-year-old pilot was flown to Mackay Base Hospital with head injuries.

Fatal plane crash at Ball Bay, north of Mackay, on Christmas Eve 2021. Photo: Janessa Ekert

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau discontinued its investigation into the crash after it was established the aircraft was being operated outside of its aviation regulations.

“The pilot was not licenced to fly aeroplanes and the aircraft and engine had not been maintained in accordance with the appropriate regulations for about 10 years,” ATSB chief commissioner Angus Mitchell said.

Kuttabul 83-year-old Gerardus Miltenburg, known as Gerry, died in a plane crash at Ball Bay on Christmas Eve 2021.

“On that basis, the ATSB has determined that there was limited opportunity that continuing to direct resources at this investigation would uncover safety learnings for the broader aviation industry.”

Investigators also determined the passenger’s seat belt had completely failed at two locations during the examination of the aircraft wreckage.

Fatal plane crash at Ball Bay, north of Mackay, on Christmas Eve 2021. Photo: Janessa Ekert

“Both the pilot and passenger’s seat belts were manufactured in May 1973 and were required to be removed from service prior to January 1, 1990, in accordance with a Civil Aviation Safety Authority airworthiness directive,” Mr Mitchell said.

“When owners operate outside of the rules, they remove the built-in safety defences and undetected problems are more likely to emerge.”

Queensland Police are continuing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.

A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

Originally published as Ball Bay plane crash investigation discontinued after examination of out-of-date safety devices