May 15, 2025

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:
Thursday, May 15, 2025

Time:
13:18 Local Time

Type of Aircraft:
Eurocopter EC120

Owner/Operator:
Not specified

Registration:
Not specified

MSN:
Not specified

Year of Manufacture:
Not specified

Engine Model:
Not specified

Fatalities:
0 / Occupants: Not specified

Other Fatalities:
0

Aircraft Damage:
Substantial

Category:
Accident

Location:
Porepunkah Airport (YPOK) – Australia

Phase:
Takeoff

Nature:
Private

Departure Airport:
Porepunkah Airport (YPOK)

Destination Airport:
Albury Airport, NSW (ABX/YMAY)

Investigating Agency:
ATSB

Confidence Rating:
Information verified through data from accident investigation authorities

Circumstances:

On May 15, 2025, a Eurocopter EC120 helicopter was involved in an accident during takeoff at Porepunkah Airport in Victoria, Australia. The aircraft was preparing for a private flight to Albury Airport in New South Wales when the crew lost control of the helicopter shortly after initiating the takeoff roll.

The loss of control caused the helicopter to roll over, resulting in substantial damage to the airframe. Fortunately, no fatalities or injuries were reported among the occupants, whose number has not been specified. Emergency services responded to the scene to assess the situation and ensure the safety of those involved.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is investigating the incident to determine the cause of the loss of control. Investigators will examine factors such as mechanical issues, environmental conditions, pilot handling, and potential operational errors. The findings will aim to enhance safety measures for helicopter operations, particularly during critical phases like takeoff.

This incident highlights the inherent risks associated with helicopter operations, especially in environments where takeoff and landing are conducted on smaller airstrips. It underscores the importance of thorough pre-flight checks, adherence to standard operating procedures, and ongoing training for pilots.

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.