The ATSB is investigating a ditching in floodwater involving Robinson R22 Beta, VH-KNG, at Adavale, Queensland, on 27 March 2025.
The pilot was conducting flood rescue operations in response to widespread severe flooding in the area and a request for assistance by the local council. Rapidly increasing water levels in the town of Adavale forced residents to shelter on their roofs, awaiting rescue.
After briefly touching down on a demountable building roof and embarking a passenger, the helicopter took off, but performance was insufficient for continued safe flight and the pilot subsequently conducted a controlled landing into the water, in the shelter of a nearby building. Both occupants evacuated safely from the upright, but partially submerged, helicopter. However, the pilot was swept away by the current and was later rescued from a downstream tree. The passenger was rescued from the water near the accident site by a swift water rescue team some hours after the accident.
The ATSB has completed the evidence collection and analysis phases of the investigation and is drafting the final report.
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.