Loss of Control During Marine Pilot Transfer – Agusta A109E Power aboard Bulk Carrier Star Coral, Queensland, Australia – February 25, 2025

Date:
Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Time:
09:02 Local Time

Type of Aircraft:
Agusta A109E Power

Owner/Operator:
Flyon Pty Ltd

Registration:
VH-XUM

MSN:
11684

Year of Manufacture:
2006

Engine Model:
P&W Canada PW206-C

Fatalities:
0 / Occupants: 2

Other Fatalities:
0

Aircraft Damage:
Substantial

Location:
Bulk carrier Star Coral , 153 km NE of Whitehaven Bay, QLD – Australia

Phase:
Takeoff

Nature:
Unknown (Marine Pilot Transfer Operation)

Departure Airport:
Not specified

Destination Airport:
YBSM

Confidence Rating:
Information verified through data from accident investigation authorities (ATSB)

Circumstances:

On February 25, 2025, an Agusta A109E Power operated by Flyon Pty Ltd was involved in a serious accident during a marine pilot transfer operation aboard the bulk carrier *Star Coral*. The incident occurred approximately 153 kilometers northeast of Whitehaven Bay, Queensland, at the Blossom Bank pilot boarding ground.

At 09:02 local time, the helicopter, with two flight crew members on board, attempted to take off from the ship’s helideck after completing the pilot transfer. Shortly after initiating the takeoff, the aircraft experienced severe vibrations. Despite attempts by the flight crew to regain control, the helicopter made contact with the ship’s helideck.

The impact caused the main rotor blades to collapse and strike the helideck, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft. The tail rotor separated from the airframe, further exacerbating the damage. Fortunately, there were no injuries to the flight crew or the ship’s crew.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has classified the event as an accident and initiated an investigation. The preliminary report (Report Number: AO-2025-009) will focus on determining the cause of the loss of control, including potential mechanical issues, environmental factors, and operational procedures during marine pilot transfers. Investigators will also review the maintenance history of the helicopter and assess whether external factors, such as weather conditions or ship motion, contributed to the accident.

This incident highlights the inherent risks associated with marine pilot transfer operations, particularly when operating helicopters from moving vessels. It underscores the importance of rigorous safety protocols, thorough pre-flight checks, and adherence to operational guidelines to mitigate risks in challenging maritime environments.