Overview
On August 2, 2017, at 0740 local time, a Robinson R22 helicopter registered as VH-HGU was destroyed following a collision with power lines during cruise flight. The accident occurred near Cloncurry Aerodrome in Australia. The aircraft was consumed by a post-impact fire. The pilot sustained fatal injuries.
Accident Sequence
The helicopter was engaged in cruise flight when it struck power lines in the vicinity of Cloncurry Aerodrome. The collision initiated a fire that subsequently destroyed the aircraft. The exact circumstances leading to the contact with the wires have not been detailed in available information.
Aircraft and Operator
The accident aircraft was a Robinson R22, a two-bladed, single-engine light helicopter. It was being operated under the pertinent civil aviation regulations of the Australian government. The helicopter was destroyed by the post-crash fire.
Investigation
The investigation into the accident is under the jurisdiction of the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB). As of the release of this report, the ATSB has not published a probable cause determination.