Safety issue

Safety issue description

Pearl Coast Helicopters did not establish appropriate separation standards for its helicopters or provide documented procedures to ensure pilots established and maintained appropriate separation.

Issue number AO-2024-044-SI-01
Issue owner Pearl Coast Helicopters Pty Ltd
Transport function Aviation: General aviation
Issue status Closed – Adequately addressed
Date issue released 03/12/2025
Issue status justification

Revised company procedures for the use of multiple helicopters have been incorporated into the operations manual.

Issue finalisation date 03/12/2025

Safety action

Action type Proactive action
Action number AO-2024-044-PSA-01
Organisation Pearl Coast Helicopters Pty Ltd
Action date 03/12/2025
Action description

The operations manual was updated to include instructions for establishing and maintaining a defined acceptable separation. These criteria were also included in operational risk assessment and planning documentation. Further, the operator intends to incorporate the BARS aerial mustering guidelines which includes recommended practices for operations utilising multiple aircraft and recommended separation into the standard operating procedures in the operations manual.

Action status Closed