Accredited representative to Fiji Annex 13 investigation into an uncommanded release of an external load involving an Airbus Helicopters AS 350 B3, VH-UAK, near Nokoroula, Viti Levu, Fiji, on 1 September 2025

AA-2025-002

Summary

The Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji (CAAF) commenced an investigation into an uncommanded release of an external load involving an Airbus Helicopters AS 350 B3, registered VH-UAK, near Nokoroula, Viti Levu, Fiji, on 1 September 2025. CAAF requested assistance and the appointment of an accredited representative from the ATSB.

To facilitate this support and to provide the appropriate protections for the information, the ATSB appointed an accredited representative in accordance with paragraph 5.18 of the International Civil Aviation Organization Annex 13 and commenced an investigation under the Australian Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003.

Any enquiries relating to the investigation should be directed to CAAF.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number AA-2025-002
Occurrence date 01/09/2025
Location Near Nokoroula, Viti Levu, Fiji
State International
Investigation type Accredited Representative
Investigation status Active
Mode of transport Aviation

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Eurocopter
Model AS 350 B3
Registration VH-UAK
Serial number 3950
Sector Helicopter
Operation type Part 91 General operating and flight rules
Departure point Voli Voli Resort, Fiji
Damage Nil