Police, Fire and Ambulance crews were called to attend a report that a plane had made an emergency landing in Darwin Harbour at approximately 8:40 am today.

Upon arrival it was established that the light aircraft containing five occupants and the pilot had ditched while landing in the Harbour shortly after take off, approximately 200 metres from East Point.

The six men were unharmed and walked across the harbour towards a picnic area on the East Point foreshore where they were checked over by Ambulance crews just after 9 am.

Fortunately none of the occupants required medical treatment and rescue crews were stood down.

Territory Duty Superintendent Rob Farmer said that it is unclear what caused the engine troubles that prompted the emergency landing but the pilot did a remarkable job.

"The pilot should be commended for keeping a level head and acting appropriately to ensure the safety of his passengers."

Police are not investigating this incident. The investigation will be a matter for the Air Transport Safety Bureau.

Media contact:
Sarah Combe
8901 0280