Thu Apr 10 19:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Faulty Antenna Cited in Deadly Australian Helicopter Collision
**Gold Coast, Australia –** A faulty radio antenna and a series of operational changes at Sea World contributed to a fatal mid-air helicopter collision in January 2023, according to a report released by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB). The accident, which occurred near Sea World on the Gold Coast, resulted in the deaths of four people – including two British tourists, Diane and Ron Hughes – and left several others seriously injured.
The ATSB investigation revealed that a crucial radio call from an inbound helicopter was not received by the pilot of a departing helicopter due to a faulty antenna on the latter aircraft. This prevented the departing pilot from being aware of the approaching helicopter, leading to the collision approximately 20 seconds after takeoff. The report also found that Sea World’s recent additions of a second helipad and larger helicopters inadvertently undermined existing risk controls, creating a dangerous conflict point for aircraft.
The pilot of the inbound helicopter, while seeing the other helicopter on the ground initially, did not perceive it as a threat. He relied on the standard radio call to alert him to changing airspace conditions, a call that was never transmitted due to the faulty antenna.
Among the other victims were Sydney resident Vanessa Tadros and Sea World Helicopters pilot Ashley Jenkinson. The pilot of the inbound helicopter was lauded for safely landing his aircraft despite the severe damage sustained.
The ATSB’s report highlights 28 key findings, emphasizing that changes to aviation operations, even those intended to improve safety, can have unforeseen negative consequences. The bureau stressed the critical need for a defined process to manage such changes and ensure overall safety isn’t compromised.
First Piper 