With the aircraft no longer in a normal landing configuration and carrying a full fuel load, the crew made the decision to remain airborne while assessing all possible recovery options. To reduce the danger associated with landing at excessive weight, they initiated a prolonged fuel-dumping procedure. For nearly two hours, the aircraft circled in controlled flight, steadily decreasing its fuel load while maintaining stability and coordinating closely with ground control at RAAF Base Amberley.
As fuel levels reached a safer threshold and weather conditions remained favorable, preparations were made for an emergency recovery landing. The crew configured the aircraft for a highly controlled approach, relying on remaining landing systems and the tail hook mechanism designed for arresting situations. The approach was executed with extreme precision, reflecting the crew’s extensive training and familiarity with emergency procedures for damaged aircraft.
Upon touchdown, the tail hook successfully engaged the arresting cable, helping to slow the aircraft. However, the landing was still highly violent due to the missing landing gear, and the fuselage made direct contact with the runway surface. The resulting friction produced intense heat, quickly escalating into a visible fire along sections of the aircraft’s underside as it skidded down the runway.
Emergency response teams were immediately deployed and brought the situation under control. Remarkably, despite the dramatic sequence of events and the extensive structural damage sustained by the aircraft, all crew members survived without injury.
The aircraft was later assessed and declared beyond economical repair, leading to its retirement from service. However, the incident has since been remembered within aviation circles as a striking example of professionalism, composure, and flawless execution under extreme pressure, demonstrating how disciplined training and decision-making can prevent a catastrophic outcome even in the most dangerous circumstances.