Summary
The main rotor blades made contact with objects on the deck of the barge and three bystanders were struck by flying debris. The helicopter then fell into the water and subsequently the pilot swam clear of the wreckage. The cause of the accident was that the helicopter was operated in unsafe proximity to the barge.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | 197400037 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 11/10/1974 |
| Location | 15.5 KM W.N.W. of Townsville |
| Report release date | 03/11/1975 |
| Report status | Final |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation status | Completed |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Loss of control |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | Serious |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Bell Helicopter Co |
|---|---|
| Model | 47 |
| Registration | VH-PDJ |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Charter |
| Departure point | near Saunders Beach |
| Destination | Saunders Beach |
| Damage | Substantial |