On November 26, 2016, a Bombardier Inc DHC-8-402 (registration VH-QOV) operated by Sunstate Airlines was involved in an aviation accident near near Bundaberg Airport, Queensland. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: It is probable that the pilot did not correctly configure and operate the helicopter’s communications system. This summary draws on records from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
The ATSB reviewed recordings from air traffic control and Bundaberg CTAF, finding no identifiable broadcasts from helicopter EHQ. It is probable that the pilot incorrectly configured or operated the communications system.
Investigation
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) conducted a review of all available recordings from air traffic control and the Bundaberg Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF). The recordings captured all broadcasts made by the flight crew of aircraft QOV and the responses from the AFRU. However, there were no identifiable recordings of broadcasts made by the pilot of helicopter EHQ.
Findings
The ATSB was unable to determine why the broadcasts reportedly made by the pilot of EHQ were not transmitted on the CTAF, nor why the crew of QOV could not hear those broadcasts. It is probable that the pilot did not correctly configure and operate the helicopter’s communications system.
Conclusion
The investigation highlighted a radio communication issue between the helicopter and other aircraft. The likely cause was improper configuration or operation of the helicopter's communication equipment.
Probable cause
It is probable that the pilot did not correctly configure and operate the helicopter’s communications system.
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