A helicopter crash in Sydney’s south-west on March 15, 2024, resulted in the death of a flight instructor and left a 19-year-old student pilot in critical condition. The incident occurred around 13:30 local time when a Robinson R22 helicopter, operated by Bankstown Helicopters, came down in a car park on Birch Street, just outside the secured perimeter of Bankstown Airport.
Emergency services arrived at the scene swiftly, where they discovered the 62-year-old instructor trapped in the wreckage. Despite efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the site. The student pilot, who was undergoing training at the time, suffered multiple injuries, including a fractured jaw, and was transported to Liverpool Hospital in a serious condition.
Investigation Underway
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell stated that it is too early to determine the precise cause of the accident. He noted that the helicopter was conducting circuit training, generally performed at altitudes between 800 and 1,000 feet, and that the aircraft had clipped a powerline and some trees during its final moments in the air.
Witnesses played a critical role in the immediate response, moving the student pilot to safety and providing first aid. Audie Jousief from NSW Ambulance praised their bravery, stating, “They probably helped save his life.”
ATSB investigators arrived at the crash site on Saturday morning, having received preliminary information from the aircraft’s owners. They will analyze the wreckage, map the crash site, and review the helicopter’s maintenance records and flight history, including the duration of the flight and the specifics of the training being conducted.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The investigation will also include an examination of flight-tracking data, weather conditions at the time of the crash, and any radio transmissions, including the possibility of a mayday call. Mitchell emphasized that it is premature to speculate whether the helicopter itself had previous issues, stating that Robinson helicopters are widely used across various sectors in Australia.
A preliminary report detailing the sequence of events is expected to be released within eight weeks, while the comprehensive investigation will take considerably longer. As the community mourns the loss of life, Mitchell expressed condolences to the families affected, stating, “Our thoughts go out to the student pilot who’s currently receiving treatment.”
This tragic incident highlights the inherent risks involved in aviation training and the importance of thorough investigations to ensure safety in the future.
