Skippers DH8C near Perth on Mar 19th 2014, near collision with unknown object

A Skippers Aviation de Havilland Dash 8-400, registration VH-XFX performing a charter flight from Kambalda,WA to Perth,WA (Australia) with 4 crew and an unknown number of passengers, was on approach to Perth descending through 3800 feet when the crew observed bright strobes in front of their aircraft and realized that the object was tracking towards them. The crew took evasive action turning the aircraft west to avoid a collision with the object. After being clear of conflict the crew continued the approach to Perth for a safe landing.

The Australian TSB released their final report of their investigation terminated without formal conclusion reporting, that the object passed the Dash 8 in about 20 meters laterally and 100 feet vertically. The crew reported the object was cylindrical in shape and grey in colour and was flying at 3700 feet MSL, there was no TCAS indication or advisory.

The Australian TSB reported that the aircraft was in military restricted airspace. The Air Force did not operate unmanned aerial vehicles in that time and were not aware of any such objects in their area.