The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has commenced a transport safety investigation into a collision with terrain accident involving a Robinson R22 helicopter 86 km north of Hughenden Aerodrome, Far North Queensland.

The pilot was conducting a positioning flight between two stations when the aircraft was reported missing on Thursday evening. The helicopter wreckage was located following a search coordinated by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority around 1130am Friday morning. The pilot, the sole occupant of the helicopter, was fatally injured.

As part of the investigation, the ATSB will examine imagery of the helicopter wreckage and accident site, seek to recover any relevant aircraft components for detailed examination in the ATSB technical facilities, analyse any available recorded data, and interview involved parties.

A report will be published at the conclusion of the investigation. However, should any critical safety issues be identified at any stage during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties so appropriate safety action can be taken.