Pilot dies as Robinson R22 helicopter crashes in Victoria River Region

Tributes have started to flow for a highly experienced 65-year-old pilot who died in a helicopter crash at a remote cattle station near the WA border.

The 65-year-old man who died after his Robinson R22 crashed at a remote NT cattle station has been described as a highly experienced helicopter pilot and a beautiful man.

The chopper crashed while undertaking a routine mustering operation at Limbunya station, north-east of Buchanan in the Victoria River Region on Tuesday.

Police were notified of the incident about 12.20pm Tuesday, and are currently investigating the circumstances of the crash.

Those who knew him well went to social media on Wednesday to express their sadness about the news with one friend calling it “devastating”.

“He saw his last sunrise yesterday morning. Doing what he loved, where he loved,” they said.

“Cannot put into words how devastating this news was to me. Fly high beautiful man.”

Another said they had kept in contact with the pilot since high school and remembered him as someone who was “extremely clever” and had a “passion for flying”.

“It is tragic, he did die doing what he loved the most,” they said.

“If he had to die then that would have been his choice for sure. We went through six long years of high school together.

“He was extremely clever and dedicated to his studies and then his passion for flying. Love to his family and besties.”

Others referred to him as a “really nice guy” and “one of nature’s gentlemen” while many others extended their condolences to friends and family.

Limbunya Station is 650km south west of Katherine, and is currently owned by North Star Pastoral. Picture: Supplied

The 65-year-old was the only occupant of the aircraft.

It is understood he worked for Top End Mustering and Kimberley Air Service Helicopters.

Buchanan is a 1024km drive south of Darwin and is close to the Western Australia border.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has since taken charge of the investigation deploying investigators from its Canberra office with experience in helicopter maintenance and engineering.

ATSB Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell said the evidence collection phase would take place over the coming days, while he anticipated a preliminary report would be submitted in 6-8 weeks.

“Over coming days investigators will examine the helicopter wreckage, survey and map the accident site with a drone,” Mr Mitchell said.

“And collect any relevant components for further examination and analysis at the ATSB’s technical facilities in Canberra.

“Investigators will also obtain and review any recorded data, weather information, witness reports, and aircraft operator procedures and maintenance records.

“The ATSB will publish a final report, detailing contributing factors and any identified safety issues, at the conclusion of the investigation.

“Should any critical safety issues be identified at any stage during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties so appropriate safety action can be taken.”

Top End Mustering extended its condolences to the “highly experienced” pilot’s family in a statement late on Tuesday.

“It is with great sadness that Top End Mustering acknowledges the tragic helicopter accident that took the life of a highly experienced pilot,” a spokeswoman said.

“First and foremost, we wish to express our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the pilot involved, as well as our own team who are devastated by this loss.

“The safety of our employees and clients is always our highest priority and we are working closely with relevant authorities in their investigation process.

“Our focus is on understanding what had occurred and continuing to support the family, friends and colleagues of the pilot.”

NT Police were also investigating after confirming the man had died at the scene.

“Northern Territory Police are currently investigating a helicopter crash in the Victoria River Region near the Western Australia border,” a police spokeswoman said.

“Yarralin and Kalkarindji Police arrived at the crash site and the 65-year-old male single occupant of the helicopter was confirmed deceased.”

“Investigations into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing and more information will be provided as it becomes available.”

NT WorkSafe have been notified.

An example of the Robinson R22 Beta II helicopter.

It comes after a single-engine plane crashed on Groote Eylandt on June 16 which sparked an Australian Transport Safety Bureau investigation.

Four passengers were also taken to hospital as a result of the incident, all being employees of the Anindilyakwa Land Council travelling for work to Ngkurr.

It is the latest in the line of helicopter crashes in the NT with a Robinson R44 crashing in May 2022, sending its four passengers plummeting 130m from the air near Nathan River Station.

The helicopter was destroyed and while one passenger was taken to hospital with serious injuries, all four survived.

Another Robinson R44 crashed near King River in a remote part of West Arnhem Land killing Outback Wrangler star Chris ‘Willow’ Wilson, while another was taken to hospital in February 2022.