By aviation writer Scott Mayman

Canberra-based Link Airways has taken steps to avoid a repeat of an air emergency in November 2022 on a flight to Sydney when a propeller strap tore through the plane, injuring a passenger.

Details were unveiled as part of a video, released by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau, in the wake of the incident.

The ATSB’s final report says a pilot had failed to extend a safety line as part of the strap-fixture process and that ground crew did not adhere to procedures that would have found the issue before take off.

According to the ATSB’s Seb Darcy, the flight crew was not told that the aircraft hull had been compromised.

“Link Airways has strengthened its procedures to help ensure the strap extension… is removed before departure and to provide more clarity on cabin crew contacting the flight deck during emergencies,” he said.

The carrier will also audit the ground operations to ensure procedures are implemented.