What happened
On 29 August 2022, a Cessna R182 Skylane RG, registration VH-EHM, departed a private property near Roma, Queensland, bound for Archerfield Airport. The flight, operated by Executive Helicopters, carried the pilot, two passengers, and a pet dog. During the flight, the aircraft encountered low cloud and reduced visibility while traversing the Great Dividing Range. Due to low fuel levels following maneuvers to avoid cloud, the pilot diverted to Dalby Airport to refuel. Approximately one hour after departing Dalby, the aircraft struck terrain in the D’Aguilar Range, roughly 36 km northwest of Archerfield. The crash resulted in three fatalities.
The investigation
The ATSB examined the pilot's pre-flight planning, the decision to continue into deteriorating weather, and the operator's risk management protocols. Investigators found that while the destination weather appeared suitable for VFR flight, the en route forecast indicated low cloud and fog, particularly over elevated terrain. The pilot's weather review occurred only six minutes before takeoff, leaving little time for thorough assessment. Additionally, the aircraft lacked an onboard recording device, which limited the ability to analyze in-flight decision-making.
Findings
- The pilot continued the flight into weather conditions unsuitable for visual flight, likely leading to a loss of visual reference and controlled flight into terrain.
- The aircraft departed with insufficient fuel to account for necessary diversions or required contingency and final reserve levels.
- Flight notification procedures were deficient; the pilot notified a family member rather than a professional contact, provided an unspecific arrival time, and failed to update the contact regarding the diversion to Dalby.
- The delay in notifying the operator of the overdue flight caused a two-hour lag in the emergency search and rescue response.
- The operator's safety management system failed to identify inadvertent entry into instrument meteorological conditions as a specific hazard.