Media Release

Search for ditched aircraft: Torres Strait

Australian Search and Rescue is coordinating an aerial and sea search for a light plane that ditched in bad weather on a flight from Badu Island to Horn Island in the Torres Strait.

The 26-year-old pilot issued a mayday call at about 1.40pm (AEST) advising that he was ditching his Cessna 206 into the sea north of Horn Island due to a heavy thunderstorm. He was the only person on board the plane.

Five fixed wing aircraft, one helicopter and three surface vessels are currently searching a 375 square nautical mile region for the aircraft.

The weather in the area is poor with high winds and heavy rain.

Further information:

Ben Mitchell 0418 164 901