A pilot who witnessed a fatal helicopter collision in Western Australia's far north has told investigators they narrowly avoided being struck by one of the aircraft. The crash occurred on July 25 at Mount Anderson station in the Kimberley, killing pilots Peter Ritter, 29, and a 30-year-old man.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau's preliminary report, released today, found both deceased pilots were skilled and authorised for aerial mustering, with six and four years of experience respectively. The lead pilot and the other man departed at about 6am for the muster location, where two other pilots were to meet them.
The following pilots recalled seeing the pair flying together but did not detect a risk of collision. Upon hearing the collision, one pilot saw a helicopter descend towards his aircraft and manoeuvred away to avoid being struck. The report found no powerlines, wildlife strike, or tree interference on the flight path.
ATSB transport safety director Stuart Godley said wreckage examination found damage consistent with a rotor-blade strike from one helicopter to the other. Both helicopters had undergone inspection earlier in July and had accrued 40-60 hours since then. The investigation continues, with the final report expected early next year.
