UPDATE: Harrowing footage of the midair collision between two Sea World helicopters has been revealed in court today, as the inquest into the tragic incident that occurred on the Gold Coast in 2023 begins. The crash claimed the lives of pilot Ash Jenkinson and three passengers: British couple Ron and Diane Hughes, and Sydney mother Vanessa Tadros. Notably, Tadros’ 10-year-old son Nicholas survived the ordeal after spending weeks in intensive care.
Witnesses in the Brisbane Coroners Court watched as the footage documented the final moments before the two helicopters collided. A passenger on Jenkinson’s helicopter was seen repeatedly tapping him on the shoulder to alert him to the imminent danger. The footage captured the horrifying moment of impact, followed by Jenkinson’s desperate attempt to regain control and land safely on a sandbar. Jenkinson tragically succumbed to cancer last year.
The inquest, presided over by Coroner Carol Lee, will delve into critical questions surrounding the crash, including how two experienced pilots failed to see each other before the collision. Ian Harvey, counsel assisting the court, emphasized the need to understand whether the pressures of operating in one of Australia’s busiest air corridors contributed to the tragedy.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) previously concluded that the crash could have been avoided if existing technical and safety issues had been addressed. Key findings revealed that a taxiing call from one helicopter did not register on the other, leading to the catastrophic collision.
As the inquest continues, family members of the victims are grappling with their grief. Winnie de Silva, who was injured alongside her 9-year-old son Leon, is expected to testify later today. Harvey expressed deep concern over the operational pressures faced by the pilots, questioning if the commercial push to introduce new helicopters before Christmas 2022 compromised safety protocols.
The ATSB also reported that Jenkinson had low levels of cocaine in his system, but stated that it was unlikely to have impaired his flying abilities at the time of the crash. Harvey raised poignant questions regarding whether the stress from operational demands contributed to Jenkinson’s state during the incident.
The inquest will span two weeks and is set to hear from approximately 30 witnesses, including surviving passengers and Sea World employees. As more details emerge, the emotional toll on the families affected by this tragic event is palpable, with many seeking answers and accountability.
For those following this developing story, it is critical to stay updated on the proceedings as the inquest unfolds. The implications of this incident extend beyond the families involved, as they raise significant questions about aviation safety standards in Australia.
