Investigation launched into CareFlight helicopter that lost control
The CareFlight helicopter's nose began to tilt at 600 feet and descend towards the ground. Picture: 9NEWS 9NEWS
An investigation has been launched after a CareFlight helicopter experienced a ‘loss of control’ during a search and rescue operation near Darwin earlier this month.
The crew was near Salt Water Arm at 9pm on May 13 and had begun manually descending from 800 feet to locate an emergency beacon.
After engaging auto hover at 600 feet, the crew noticed the helicopter's nose beginning to tilt and the aircraft slowing and continuing to descend.
It wasn't until 90 feet above the ground that the pilot was able to pull the chopper up.
The aircraft was able to complete the search operation and after locating the boat, guided an NT Police vessel to its location, where the crew was found safe.
CareFlight notified the Australian Transport Safety Bureau of the problem, which has since launched an investigation into the serious incident.
The helicopter is an Agusta AW139, which is a commonly used aircraft for aeromedical services.
ATSB expects a final report will be released later this year.
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