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Date:
Tuesday 6 January 2026
Time:
14:00
Type of Aircraft:
Bell 206 (Silhouette image of generic B06 model; specific model in this crash may look slightly different)
Owner/Operator:
Not specified
Registration:
Not specified
MSN:
Not specified
Year of Manufacture:
Not specified
Engine Model:
Not specified
Fatalities:
0 / Occupants: 1
Other Fatalities:
0
Aircraft Damage:
Substantial
Category:
Accident
Location:
6.5 km W of Horn Island Aerodrome, QLD – Australia
Phase:
Initial climb
Nature:
Unknown
Departure Airport:
Sadies Beach Helipad, QLD (YSBH)
Destination Airport:
Horn Island Airport, QLD (HID/YHID)
Investigating Agency:
ATSB
Confidence Rating:
Information verified through data from accident investigation authorities
Circumstances:
The helicopter departed Sadies Beach Helipad for a flight to Horn Island Airport. During the initial climb, the pilot observed uncommanded yaw and fluctuating torque indications.
The pilot subsequently received a low rotor alert and initiated an autorotation. During the emergency procedure, the helicopter’s floats were activated and the aircraft was ditched into the sea west of Horn Island.
Emergency services responded, and the sole pilot was recovered and transported for medical assessment. The helicopter sustained substantial damage. The ATSB was notified and recorded the occurrence.
Sources:
https://www.cairnspost.com.au/helicopter-crashes-into-sea-off-thursday-island-with-pilot-taken-to-hospital/news-story/5a2a3de129307ad94fe3aa279e184f3d
ATSB
Carter Capner Law monitors accidents involving light aircraft, helicopters, charter flights, balloons, commuter aircraft and airlines throughout Australia and overseas to spotlight safety issues of concern to our clients and to demonstrate those situations in which they may have a right to an insurance or compensation recovery. We act for pilots, passengers, operators, aircraft owners and aviation employees worldwide. Call today on 1300 529 529 or click here to reach Carter Capner Law. Click on Client Showcase to view our history of aircraft accident compensation claims.