Loss of Control During Training – Robinson R22 near Southport Aerodrome, Queensland, Australia – February 26, 2025

Date:
Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Time:
08:40 Local Time

Type of Aircraft:
Robinson R22

Owner/Operator:
Not specified

Registration:
Not specified

MSN:
Not specified

Year of Manufacture:
Not specified

Engine Model:
Not specified

Fatalities:
0 / Occupants: 2

Other Fatalities:
0

Aircraft Damage:
Destroyed

Location:
29.4 km 352 degrees from Southport Aerodrome, QLD – Australia

Phase:
Manoeuvring (Low-Level Training Operations)

Nature:
Training

Departure Airport:
Brisbane-Archerfield Airport, QLD (ACF/YBAF)

Destination Airport:
Brisbane-Archerfield Airport, QLD (ACF/YBAF)

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

Circumstances:

On February 26, 2025, a Robinson R22 helicopter was involved in an accident during low-level training operations approximately 29.4 kilometers north of Southport Aerodrome in Queensland, Australia. The aircraft, operating out of Brisbane-Archerfield Airport, was conducting training maneuvers when it encountered a gust of wind.

The crew reported that the collective control became unresponsive, and they subsequently lost control of the helicopter. The aircraft collided with terrain, resulting in its complete destruction. Both occupants, who were part of the training crew, sustained injuries but survived the crash. Emergency services responded to the scene to provide medical assistance.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has initiated an investigation into the cause of the accident. Investigators will examine factors such as the weather conditions at the time of the incident, the functionality of the helicopter’s flight controls, and the actions of the crew during the emergency. The ATSB will also assess whether environmental factors, such as wind gusts or turbulence, contributed to the loss of control.

This incident highlights the inherent risks associated with low-level helicopter operations, particularly during training flights. It underscores the importance of rigorous pre-flight planning, thorough risk assessments, and adherence to safety protocols to mitigate hazards in dynamic flying environments.