Release of Skehill report
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has released the Executive Summary of the Skehill Report of the investigation into the internal issues arising from the suspension, and subsequent conditional stay, of the Air Operator's Certificate of Aquatic Air Pty Ltd.
The Director of Aviation Safety, Mick Toller, says this action is in line with CASA's determination to ensure transparent accountability for its vital regulatory functions and follows the tragic accident near Sydney on 26 July 1998 in which five people died.
He said the Report provides a valuable independent insight into the way CASA does its business and there are lessons to be learned.
"I am particularly pleased that Mr Skehill's Report contains a number of observations and recommendations that will be of some assistance to CASA in its future operations. I will be establishing a small team to ensure that we obtain maximum benefit from the Report through the implementation of any changes necessary to improve our surveillance procedures or certificate action.
"As a result of the findings of the Report, I am pleased to announce that Mr Herb McFarlane has been exonerated and has resumed his duties in the Authority," he said.
In addition, Mr Toller said the contract of one of the other officers suspended following the accident had been terminated. A third officer returned to work on other duties on 25 November but subsequently decided to leave CASA.
He emphasised that the Skehill Inquiry was an internal review of CASA's regulatory processes, and was completely separate from the investigation of the accident being carried out by the Bureau of Air Safety Investigation.
Note to Editors: Mr Toller will make a one-off statement to the media in the ground floor conference room at CASA's head office, corner of Northbourne Avenue and Barry Drive, Canberra City at 10.30am today (Thursday). This will be the only opportunity Mr Toller will have today to meet media representatives.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Don Hook
Acting Manager Public Relations
Phone (02) 6217 1015 or Mobile 041 929 6446
26 November 1998
Ref: ME9831PR