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Date:
Monday, May 5, 2025
Time:
19:08 Local Time
Type of Aircraft:
Danfield Stratoship Concept 1400 (Experimental Stratospheric Airship)
Owner/Operator:
Danfield Stratoship
Registration:
VH-DJU
MSN:
DSA2022-01
Year of Manufacture:
2022
Engine Model:
Hacker Motor Gmbh Q80
Fatalities:
0 / Occupants: 0
Other Fatalities:
0
Aircraft Damage:
Substantial
Category:
Accident
Location:
77.784 km 202.5 degrees from Hughenden Aerodrome, QLD – Australia
Phase:
En route
Nature:
Test
Departure Airport:
Not specified
Destination Airport:
Not specified
Investigating Agency:
ATSB
Confidence Rating:
Information verified through data from accident investigation authorities
Circumstances:
On May 5, 2025, a Danfield Stratoship Concept 1400, registered VH-DJU and operated by Danfield Stratoship, was involved in an accident during a high-altitude test flight approximately 77.784 kilometers southwest of Hughenden Aerodrome in Queensland, Australia. The remotely piloted airship (RPAS) was conducting experimental operations as part of a series of planned stratospheric test flights in the Winton-Hughenden vicinity.
During the test flight at an altitude of 64,000 feet, the RPAS ceased responding to command inputs and drifted outside its designated geofence. The Auto Flight Termination System (AFTS) activated, initiating a controlled descent. However, during the descent, the airship’s envelope failed, causing the payload boxes to detach and fall from the RPAS. The airship subsequently collided with terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.
The Stratoship is an experimental stratospheric airship designed for high-altitude operations. When fully inflated, it measures 25 meters in length and 10 meters in diameter, with a shiny metallic fabric that enhances visibility during daylight. It is equipped with anti-collision strobe lights for nighttime operations and a certified Mode S / ADS-B transponder for tracking. Test flights are conducted under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) with ATC clearances in Class E and Class A airspace, while periodic VHF radio calls are made in Class G airspace.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is investigating the incident to determine the cause of the loss of control, the failure of the airship’s envelope, and the effectiveness of the geofencing and Auto Flight Termination System. Investigators will examine factors such as system malfunctions, environmental conditions, and operational procedures.
This incident highlights the challenges associated with testing experimental high-altitude airships, particularly in remote areas. It underscores the importance of robust safety systems and thorough risk assessments for such operations.
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.