Aviation safety investigations & reports
Loss of operator control and collision with terrain, Inspire 2 (UAV), Darling Harbour NSW, on 15 January 2021
AO-2021-001
Summary
The ATSB is investigating a loss of operator control and collision with terrain involving a DJI Inspire 2 remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) at Darling Harbour, NSW, on 15 January 2021.
While conducting aerial photography the RPA was flown to approximately 10 m above ground level when the pilot reportedly lost control of the aircraft. The RPA flew away laterally at high speed and subsequently collided with and broke the window of a building. An occupant of the building sustained minor injuries from the shattered glass. The RPA was destroyed.
The ATSB will interview the pilot, obtain and review recorded flight and controller data, and review the operator’s procedures as part of the investigation.
A report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation, however should a critical safety issue be identified the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties so appropriate action can be taken
General details
| Date: | 15 January 2021 | Investigation status: | Active | ||
| Time: | 11:45 ESuT | Investigation level: | Defined - click for an explanation of investigation levels | ||
| Location (show map): | Sydney Aerodrome, 24.75° T 7Km (Darling Harbour) | Investigation phase: | Final report: Approval | ||
| State: | New South Wales | Occurrence type: | Collision with terrain | ||
| Occurrence category: | Accident | ||||
| Report status: | Pending | Highest injury level: | Minor | ||
| Anticipated completion: | 2nd Quarter 2022 |
Aircraft details
| Aircraft model | Inspire 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Serial number | 09YDFAL004094 2 | |
| Operator | Sky Monkey Pty Ltd | |
| Sector | Remotely piloted aircraft | |
| Departure point | Darling Harbour, New South Wales | |
| Destination | Darling Harbour, New South Wales |