IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR NORTHERN TERRITORY RESIDENTS

WARNING for any members in the area.

AIR FORCE F/A-18 HORNET INCIDENT OVER TINDAL TRAINING AREA

Air Force today asked for Northern Territory residents to be aware of a missing pyrotechnic flare.

During a routine training flight today, an Air Force F/A-18 Hornet aircraft from RAAF Base Tindal, near Katherine in the Northern Territory had a pyrotechnic flare separate from the aircraft during flight.

The aircraft was operating in the sparsely populated Tindal training airspace, within and area bounded by Tindal, Tipperary, Timber Creek and Delamere.

The unexpended pyrotechnic flare is cylindrical in shape with a diameter of 35mm and a length measuring 110mm. The flare is approximately the size of a slim energy drink can and is dangerous. Under no circumstances should it be handled.

Members of the public who may discover the flare should report its location to the nearest Northern Territory police station on 131 444. DO NOT TOUCH THE OBJECT.

The loss of parts from aircraft during flight is unusual and the use of these pyrotechnic flares has been suspended as a precautionary measure while the cause is investigated.

Air Force takes safety seriously and appreciates the media and public’s assistance in this matter.

Media contact: Defence Media Liaison: 02 6127 1999 or 0408 498 664



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