Irwin Mitchell Aviation Team Concerned About Helicopter Collision In Australia

On 2 January 2023, two Eurocopter EC130B4 helicopters owned and operated by Sea World Helicopters Pty Ltd suffered a mid-air collision near Sea World Heliport in Main Beach, Queensland, Australia.

Initial reports suggest that during the initial climb one helicopter (reg VH-XKQ) had its tail section cut off by the other approaching helicopter (VH-XH9). Tragically VH-XKQ was forced to make an emergency landing with severe damage to the cockpit section, resulting in the deaths of four of the seven occupants. Reportedly, five of the six occupants of VH-XH9 received minor injuries.

Irwin Mitchell has acted for numerous victims of helicopter accidents both in the UK and abroad.

Expert Opinion

“This is such a tragedy and our hearts go out to everyone affected by this helicopter collision. We’ve represented many families affected by similar incidents and the next few weeks and months will be incredibly hard for them.

“In terms of providing answers as to what happened, the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is investigating and will report in a couple of months. It is vitally important that the full chain of events that led to this serious accident are established so that lessons can be learned and similar incidents can be prevented in the future – as well as to give some closure to those who have lost loved ones in the crash.” Vincent Nichol, Solicitor

The ATSB's preliminary report is due in six to eight weeks and they have called on eyewitnesses to get in touch while the UK Foreign Office has said it is supporting the British victims' families and will be liaising with the local authorities.

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting families affected by other air crashes at our aviation section.