Collision with water involving Robinson R44, VH-CTT, 13 km east of Barwon Heads Airport, Victoria, on 2 May 2025

AO-2025-022

Summary

The ATSB is investigating a collision with water involving Robinson R44, VH-CTT, 13 km east of Barwon Heads Airport, Victoria, on 2 May 2025.

The final report has been drafted and is undergoing internal review to ensure the report adequately and accurately reflects the evidence collected, analysis, and agreed findings.

The final 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 that appropriate safety action can be taken.

Occurrence summary

Investigation number AO-2025-022
Occurrence date 02/05/2025
Occurrence time and timezone 0943 Australian Eastern Standard Time
Location 13 km east of Barwon Heads Airport
State Victoria
Report status Pending
Anticipated completion Q2 2026
Investigation level Short
Investigation type Occurrence Investigation
Investigation phase Final report: Internal review
Investigation status Active
Mode of transport Aviation
Aviation occurrence category Abnormal engine indications, Collision with terrain, Engine failure or malfunction, Loss of control
Occurrence class Accident
Highest injury level Serious

Aircraft details

Manufacturer Robinson Helicopter Co
Model R44 II
Registration VH-CTT
Serial number 12599
Aircraft operator Helicopter Adventures Pty Ltd
Sector Helicopter
Operation type Part 133 Air transport operations - rotorcraft
Activity Commercial air transport-Non-scheduled-Joyflights / sightseeing charters
Injuries Crew - 1 (serious)
Damage Destroyed