Investigation number
AO-2025-018
Occurrence date
Location
15 km north-east of Bankstown Airport
State
New South Wales
Report status
Pending
Investigation level
Short
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation phase
Final report: Drafting
Investigation status
Active
Aviation occurrence category
Control issues
Forced/precautionary landing
Weather - Other
Occurrence class
Serious Incident
Highest injury level
None
Anticipated completion

The ATSB is investigating a forced landing involving a Robinson R44 helicopter, registered VH‑EWM, 15 km northeast of Bankstown Airport, New South Wales, on 7 April 2025

During an air transport flight, while cruising at 500 ft, the helicopter encountered a gust of wind and lost altitude. The pilot manoeuvred the helicopter toward a nearby beach and as the helicopter approached the beach, the low rotor RPM warning activated. The pilot then conducted a forced landing on the beach.

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.

Last Updated
Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Robinson Helicopter Co
Model
R44
Registration
VH-EWM
Aircraft Operator
Bankstown Helicopters Pty Limited
Serial number
1394
Operation type
Part 133 Air transport operations - rotorcraft
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
Bankstown Airport, NSW
Destination
Bankstown Airport, NSW
Damage
Nil