Introduction
On the afternoon of 6 October 2022, a Bell 206B JetRanger helicopter, registered VH-PHP, departed Casino Airport, New South Wales on a solo ferry flight to Warnervale. The flight initially proceeded inland before entering the Williamtown military restricted area via a visual flight rules route. During the flight, the helicopter deviated from the intended track, turned around, and exited the restricted area below 500 ft above ground level. Witnesses observed the helicopter heading towards the Hunter River, descending slightly, then rolling markedly and descending rapidly, colliding with the riverbank. The helicopter was destroyed and the pilot was fatally injured.
Flight Path and Observations
Recorded flight data indicated the helicopter deviated from the pilot's planned track before exiting the restricted area. The pilot did not respond to radio calls from Brisbane air traffic control. The helicopter slowed to 22 kt and descended to 120 ft above ground level at one point, suggesting a possible approach to land, but then climbed away. There was no known reason for the deviation; the pilot had informed family by phone shortly before that the helicopter was flying well and arrival was imminent. The pilot's navigation software on a phone remained active throughout the flight, indicating a functional navigational aid.
Investigation Findings
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) examined possible explanations for the deviation and collision. Wreckage examination found no pre-existing mechanical or structural issues, and signatures of engine and driveshaft rotation confirmed the powerplant and rotor system were functional. The mast fractured from torsional overload due to rotor blade contact with the ground, consistent with the pilot not excessively manoeuvring the helicopter. Weather conditions were reported suitable for visual flight, with no evidence that weather directly affected the flight path.
Pilot distraction was considered but deemed unlikely given the absence of passengers, traffic, or technical issues, and the simplicity of Bluetooth headset use. The flight time from the deviation area to the accident was sufficient for responding to a distraction, including a precautionary landing.
The ATSB found that pilot incapacitation was the most likely scenario. Less than 12 months prior, a cardiologist had determined the pilot had minor coronary artery disease with low to intermediate risk of a cardiac event. However, post-mortem examination revealed severe coronary atherosclerosis with at least 80% blockage in all three major coronary arteries. While a heart attack could not be forensically confirmed, it was a significant risk factor. Additionally, the pilot had not declared a significant surgery and was taking numerous prescribed, non-prescribed, and recreational drugs that could adversely affect performance. These were not disclosed during the pilot's aviation medical examination, preventing specialist assessment.
Conclusion
The ATSB concluded that it was likely the pilot experienced an incapacitating event during the flight, leading to the loss of control and collision with terrain.