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.
Date:
January 9, 2025
Time:
c. 05:30 LT
Type of Aircraft:
Robinson R44 Clipper II
Owner/Operator:
Country Mile Helicopters Pty Ltd
Registration:
VH-MGR
MSN:
10312
Year of Manufacture:
2004
Engine Model:
Lycoming IO-540-AE1A5
Fatalities:
0 / Occupants: 1
Other Fatalities:
0
Aircraft Damage:
Substantial
Location:
Near Innisfail Aerodrome (IFL/YIFL), QLD – Australia
Phase:
Manoeuvring (airshow, firefighting, ag.ops.)
Nature:
Agricultural
Departure Airport:
[Not specified]Destination Airport:
[Not specified]Confidence Rating:
Information verified through data from accident investigation authorities (ATSB)
Circumstances:
A Robinson R44 Clipper II helicopter, registered VH-MGR and operated by Country Mile Helicopters Pty Ltd, sustained substantial damage in a forced landing near Innisfail Aerodrome, Queensland. The helicopter was engaged in agricultural operations when it experienced a loss of engine power.
The pilot, who was the sole occupant, managed to execute a forced landing, minimizing injuries. The pilot’s skill and experience in handling the emergency situation likely played a crucial role in preventing a more severe outcome.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is investigating the accident to determine the cause of the engine power loss and any contributing factors. This will involve examining the wreckage, interviewing the pilot, and analyzing any available flight data or maintenance records.
The incident highlights the inherent risks associated with agricultural aviation, where helicopters often operate at low altitudes and in challenging environments. The ATSB investigation will aim to identify any safety lessons that can be learned from this incident to help prevent similar occurrences in the future.
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.