Australian Transportation Safety Bureau Releases Preliminary Findings In The Accident

The Australian Transportation Safety Bureau has released its preliminary report in an accident July 22nd near Turramurra on Sydney's North Shore, in which a Bell 206 helicopter lost part of its tail boom, resulting in the fatal injury of the two people on board.

The ATSB report indicates that analysis of the wreckage distribution and key components has indicated that a section of the helicopter's tail boom had separated in flight, after multiple main rotor blade strikes. The loss of the tail boom section was consistent with its location 50 meters to the south of the main wreckage, and also consistent with witness reports of the event. There was evidence that power was being delivered to the main rotor blades until the helicopter impacted the terrain. Examination of the flight control system did not reveal any preliminary indications of a contributory failure or pre-existing condition that would have led to the separation of the tail boom section.

The ATSB has obtained air traffic control radar surveillance records and recordings of radio communications between the pilot and air traffic control. Investigators are  examining this data to develop an understanding of the helicopter's flight track. Preliminary data indicates that the flight departed Rosehill at around 9.00am (Eastern Standard Time) and tracked via Abbotsford and the Lane Cove River to the South Turramurra area.

Efforts by specialist ATSB investigators are underway to obtain information from recovered on-board GPS navigation equipment. Although seriously damaged in the accident, the equipment may provide additional detail on the helicopter's flight track and altitudes leading up to the accident.

Bell 206 File Photo

Investigators are conducting interviews with witnesses to the event as well as staff and personnel involved with the helicopter's operation. This information will assist investigators form an understanding of the operation and conduct of the flight. A specialist human factors investigator has been assigned to the team and will consider all aspects of the occurrence related to human performance and the piloting role.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the accident fatally injured Australian businessman Bruce Campbell and "freelance" pilot Colin Greenwood.

FMI: www.atsb.gov.au