Near collision involving Bell 212, VH-JJR, and Sling 2, VH-FFZ, about 1.6 km north-north-west of Moorabbin Airport, Victoria, on 24 November 2025

Summary

The ATSB is investigating a near collision involving a Bell 212, registration VH-JJR, and a Sling 2, registration VH‑FFZ, near Moorabbin Airport, Victoria, on 24 November 2025.

Both aircraft were engaged in training activities, and each had 2 persons on board. While returning to land at Moorabbin the Bell 212 crossed into the path of the Sling 2 which was on final approach to runway 13L. It was reported that the helicopter passed above the fixed wing aircraft with a separation of less than 60 meters. Both aircraft continued to land without further incident. There were no injuries to those on board, and no damage to either aircraft.

The ATSB has commenced the examination and analysis of the evidence collected.

To date, the ATSB investigation has included:

• interviewing the flight crew and air traffic controllers
• examination of pilot records
• analysis of flight recorder and air traffic surveillance data.

In the course of the investigation, the ATSB considers there to be a reasonable likelihood of limitations in risk controls that potentially contributed to the occurrence. Examination of these factors represent a significant increase in the scope of this investigation, and it has been upgraded from Short to Defined as a result (the ATSB's different levels of investigation are detailed here).

The continuing investigation will include examination and analysis of:

• operational documentation
• related occurrences.

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.