Summary
The ATSB is investigating an uncommanded descent involving a Leonardo Helicopters AW139, registered VH‑ZXA, about 33 km east of Williamtown Airport, New South Wales, on 24 June 2026.
During an aerial night search, while operating about 300 ft over water, the helicopter commenced a tight turn and encountered an uncommanded descent. The pilot applied power to arrest the descent. The helicopter was recovered at approximately 200 ft and the pilot conducted a go-around.
The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve interviewing the flight crew, retrieving and reviewing available recorded data, and the collection of 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.
Occurrence summary
| Investigation number | AO-2026-085 |
|---|---|
| Occurrence date | 24/06/2026 |
| Occurrence time and timezone | 2005 Australian Eastern Standard Time |
| Location | About 33 km east of Williamtown Airport |
| State | New South Wales |
| Report status | Pending |
| Anticipated completion | Q4 2026 |
| Investigation level | Short |
| Investigation type | Occurrence Investigation |
| Investigation phase | Evidence collection |
| Investigation status | Active |
| Mode of transport | Aviation |
| Aviation occurrence category | Loss of control |
| Occurrence class | Serious Incident |
| Highest injury level | None |
Aircraft details
| Manufacturer | Leonardo Helicopters |
|---|---|
| Model | AW139 |
| Registration | VH-ZXA |
| Serial number | 31727 |
| Aircraft operator | Northern NSW Helicopter Rescue Service Limited |
| Sector | Helicopter |
| Operation type | Part 133 Air transport operations - rotorcraft |
| Activity | General aviation / Recreational-Aerial work-Search and rescue |
| Departure point | Lake Macquarie Aircraft Landing Area, New South Wales |
| Destination | Nelson Bay Medical Helicopter Landing Site, New South Wales |
| Injuries | None |
| Damage | Nil |