Aviation safety investigations & reports
Collision with water involving a Sikorsky S-64E Skycrane helicopter, N173AC, near Jericho, Victoria, on 28 January 2019
AO-2019-008
Summary
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is investigating the collision with water involving a Sikorsky S-64E Skycrane helicopter, N173AC, near Jericho, Victoria, on 28 January
During aerial fire control operations, at about 1956, the helicopter collided with water and came to rest inverted resulting in minor injuries to the three crew and damage to the helicopter.
As part of the investigation, the ATSB will among other tasks interview witnesses and crew, collect and examine any available flight data and examination of operation and maintenance procedures and manuals.
A report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.
Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties so appropriate action can be taken.
General details
| Date: | 28 January 2019 | Investigation status: | Active | ||
| Time: | 1956 AEST | Investigation level: | Short - click for an explanation of investigation levels | ||
| Location (show map): | near Jericho (Gippsland) | Investigation phase: | Evidence collection | ||
| State: | Victoria | Occurrence type: | Collision with terrain | ||
| Occurrence class: | Operational | ||||
| Report status: | Pending | Occurrence category: | Accident | ||
| Anticipated completion: | 3rd Quarter 2019 | Highest injury level: | Minor |
Aircraft details
| Aircraft manufacturer | Sikorsky Aircraft | |
|---|---|---|
| Aircraft model | Sikorsky S-64E/F Skyrcrane | |
| Aircraft registration | N173AC | |
| Operator | Kestrel Aviation | |
| Type of operation | Aerial Work | |
| Sector | Helicopter | |
| Damage to aircraft | Substantial |