Summary
The ATSB is investigating a ditching involving Robinson R44, registration VH-8HR, 19 km north‑north-west of Hamilton Island Airport, Queensland, on 25 January 2026.
Shortly after take-off, while over water, the pilot observed a low RPM horn before the engine ran rough and lost partial power. The pilot deployed the emergency pop-out floats before ditching the helicopter onto the ocean.
The ATSB has completed the evidence collection and analysis phases of the investigation and is drafting the final report.
To date, the ATSB investigation has included:
- examination of maintenance and pilot records
- interviewing the pilot
- analysis of engine management unit data, operational documentation and related occurrences.
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-2026-009 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 25/01/2026 |
| Location | 19 km north-north-west of Hamilton Island Airport |
| State | Queensland |
| Report status | Pending |
| Anticipated completion | Q2 2026 |
| Investigation level | Short |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation phase | Final report: Drafting |
| Investigation status | Active |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Abnormal engine indications, Ditching, Engine failure or malfunction |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Robinson Helicopter Co |
|---|---|
| Model | R44 |
| Registration | VH-8HR |
| Serial number | 2751 |
| Aircraft operator | Whitsunday Air Services Pty Ltd |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Part 133 Air transport operations - rotorcraft |
| Departure point | Shute Harbour Aircraft Landing Area, Queensland |
| Destination | Daydream Island Helicopter Landing Site, Queensland |
| Damage | Minor |