UPDATE: A shocking report from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) reveals that the pilot of the helicopter that crashed in Porepunkah on May 15, 2023, had not flown the Eurocopter EC120 model in nearly 15 years. This critical finding raises urgent questions about pilot readiness and aircraft safety.
The incident occurred during a low-altitude flight intended for a private trip to Albury. Fortunately, both the pilot and a passenger emerged uninjured, but the crash resulted in significant damage to the helicopter. The ATSB’s investigation highlights that, despite the pilot’s extensive experience and commercial license, their lack of recent practice on the EC120 severely impacted their ability to control the aircraft.
According to ATSB director of transport safety, Dr. Stuart Godley, the EC120’s unique ‘Fenestron’ shrouded tail rotor demands different handling than more commonly flown models, such as the Robinson R44, which the pilot had primarily operated in the preceding year. “The pilot’s lack of recent type experience on the EC120 degraded their ability to anticipate and counter the left yaw,” Dr. Godley stated.
As the helicopter lifted into a hover, it began to yaw left without correction. The pilot attempted to regain control with right pedal input, but it was too late. The helicopter rolled over after the right skid made contact with the ground, leading to the crash.
Dr. Godley emphasized the importance of maintaining recent type-specific flight experience, particularly when transitioning between aircraft with differing control characteristics. “This highlights the critical need for pilots to stay proficient with the specific characteristics of the aircraft they fly,” he noted.
The report comes on the heels of a serious plane crash at the same airstrip in January 2023 that nearly took a pilot’s life, underscoring ongoing safety concerns in the area.
Authorities urge pilots and operators to reevaluate their training and experience protocols to prevent future incidents. As this investigation continues, further updates will be vital for the flying community. Stay tuned for more developments on this urgent situation.
