The ATSB is investigating a collision with water involving a de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver, VH-OHU, near Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, Queensland on 26 October 2024.
The aircraft was being operated as a scenic flight. At about 0845 local time, during a water landing, following a flight from Hamilton Island Airport to Whitehaven Beach, the aircraft collided with water and became inverted. The pilot and 4 passengers escaped the aircraft and were uninjured.
The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve interviewing the pilot and passengers, examination of relevant components and maintenance records, retrieving and reviewing recorded data, and the collection of other relevant information.
A final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.
The ATSB asks anyone who may have witnessed or has photos or has footage of the accident, or who has footage of the aircraft at any stage of its flight, to contact us via the witness form at their earliest convenience.