Helicopter pilot dies in remote crash
A “highly experienced” pilot has died after his helicopter crashed in the Northern Territory’s Victoria River region while undertaking aerial mustering operations.
Police received reports at 12.20pm on Tuesday that a Robinson R22 helicopter had crashed near the West Australian border.
The 65-year-old male helicopter pilot and sole occupant of the aircraft was confirmed dead at the crash site near Limbunya Station.
In a statement released by Top End Mustering, the helicopter charter company said the “highly experienced” pilot had been carrying out a “routine mustering operation” when the incident occurred.
“First and foremost, we wish to express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the pilot involved as well as our own team who are devastated by this loss,” the statement read.
“The safety of our employees and clients is always our highest priority and we are working closely with relevant authorities in their investigation process.”
The charter company said it was focused on uncovering the circumstances surrounding the incident as well as supporting staff and loved ones of the deceased.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) confirmed on Wednesday it would also investigate the incident.
“The ATSB is deploying investigators from its Canberra office with experience in helicopter maintenance and engineering to the accident site to begin the evidence collection phase of the investigation,” the bureau said in a statement.
“Over (the) coming days investigators will examine the helicopter wreckage, survey and map the accident site with a drone and collect any relevant components for further examination and analysis at the ATSB’s technical facilities in Canberra.”
The bureau anticipates a preliminary report to be published in six to eight weeks and will publish a final report, which will include any identified safety issues, at the end of its investigation.
NT Police is also investigating the circumstances of the crash.
NT Work Safe has been notified and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
Limbunya is a 520,000ha breeding property located 650km west of Katherine, 500km south of Darwin and just 100km from the West Australian border.
