Source: www.abc.net.au | Chris O’Brien

The Queensland police jet carrying most of Queensland’s top police and emergency services leaders has made an emergency return in Brisbane this morning after a mid-air drama on the way to Townsville. The early morning flight carrying Queensland Police Minister Mark Ryan, Commissioner Ian Stewart and Emergency Services Commissioner Katarina Carroll was near Gladstone when it suddenly plummeted, dropping altitude rapidly. Those onboard reported loud banging and the smell of smoke. The 19-year-old Cessna Citation twin jet landed safely back in Brisbane with those on board having to abandon the plan to join the Premier in Townsville for Australia Day. Mr Ryan said it was a frightening experience.

“But I knew the fantastic and highly experienced pilots of the Government Air Wing were in control. I’m grateful to them for their professionalism, skill, reassurance, and calmness,” Mr Ryan said.

Corrective Services Commissioner Peter Martin and head of Maritime Safety Queensland Captain Patrick Quirk were also on board. A government spokesman said Commissioner Stewart directed the other passengers to follow emergency procedures as the pilots turned the plane around and flew at low altitude and slow speed back to Brisbane.