Search for Missing Fishing Trawler Brings Aerorescue (AMSA - Australian Maritime Safety Authority) / Aero Pearl Dornier 328-100 VH-PPJ "Rescue 471" to Rockhampton Airport

On Friday 25 November, Aerorescue (AMSA - Australian Maritime Safety Authority) / Aero Pearl Dornier 328-100 VH-PPJ "Rescue 471" was spotted at Rockhampton Airport returning from an early morning sortie over water in search of a missing fishing trawler.  The search area reportedly stretches from the Capricorn Coast South to the Gold Coast.

VH-PPJ had earlier flown into Rocky from its Cairns base and after taking on fuel, departed out to sea.

After landing back at Rockhampton Airport, the crew of VH-PPJ were heard to suggest that a relieft crew was being flown from Cairns and indeed later on Friday 25 November, McDermott Aviation Group / Machjet International Beech B200 King Air VH-WJK arrived into Rockhampton Airport from Cairns.

Soon after, both VH-WJK and VH-PPJ returned to Cairns.

It is not believed that any other aircraft are involved with the search around the Capricorn Coast region.

Photo taken by 'IAD'  ©