AO-2024-049Serious IncidentFinal Report

Runway incursion — Boeing 737 and Cessna 172, Moorabbin

Date21 October 2024
LocationMoorabbin Airport, VIC
AircraftVH-MEC
TypeCessna 172SP Skyhawk
SourceAustralian Transport Safety Bureau

Summary

A Cessna 172 entered runway 17L at Moorabbin Airport without clearance, crossing the path of a Metro aircraft on approach. Air Traffic Control issued a go-around instruction to the Metro; the minimum separation was estimated at 120 m laterally. No collision occurred; no injuries.

Investigation Findings (4)

  1. 01The Cessna pilot misread the holding point signage in fading afternoon light.
  2. 02No standard phraseology error was identified in ATC communications.
  3. 03Airservices Australia reviewed the signage at the affected intersection and installed additional high-visibility paint.
  4. 04ATSB recommended a review of training for student pilots on holding point identification at complex aerodromes.

Aircraft Involved

VH-MEC

Cessna 172SP Skyhawk

Melbourne Aero Club

Registered

This report is based on publicly available ATSB/CASA data and may not reflect the complete investigation findings. Refer to the official ATSB website for authoritative reports.