The ATSB is investigating an occurrence involving a Leonardo Helicopters AW139, registration VH-EXK, during winching training operations 19 km east of Longford Heliport, Victoria, on 2 August 2024.
The helicopter, operating under visual flight rules (VFR), inadvertently entered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). This resulted in a momentary undesired descent and triggered a Terrain Awareness and Warning System (TAWS) alert. The crew managed to regain control, and the helicopter continued the flight without further incident.
In the course of the investigation, the ATSB has identified potential limitations in risk controls relevant to the occurrence that potentially contributed to the occurrence. Examination of these factors represent a significant increase in the scope of this investigation, and it has been upgraded from Short to Defined as a result (the ATSB's different levels of investigation are detailed here).
The final report has been drafted and is undergoing internal review to ensure the report adequately and accurately reflects the evidence collected, analysis, and agreed findings.
The 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.