The ATSB is investigating a collision with terrain involving a Robinson R22 Beta, VH-ESG, 42 km south-east of Jericho, Queensland, on 20 April 2026.
It was reported that the helicopter collided with terrain and the pilot sustained fatal injuries.
The ATSB deployed an investigation team to examine the aircraft wreckage and gather other information from the accident site, interview any witnesses, examine maintenance records, and collect other relevant information.
A 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.
Last updated:
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | AO-2026-073 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 20/04/2026 |
| Occurrence time and timezone | 0911 Australian Eastern Standard Time |
| Location | 42 km south-east of Jericho |
| State | Queensland |
| Report status | Pending |
| Anticipated completion | Q3 2026 |
| Investigation level | Short |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation phase | Evidence collection |
| Investigation status | Active |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Collision with terrain |
| Occurrence class | Accident |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Robinson Helicopter Co |
|---|---|
| Model | R22 Beta |
| Registration | VH-ESG |
| Aircraft operator | B & T Philp Pty Ltd |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Part 138 Aerial work operations |
| Activity | General aviation / Recreational-Aerial work-Unknown aerial work |
| Injuries | Crew - 1 (fatal) |
| Damage | Unknown |