Investigation number
AO-2025-015
Occurrence date
Location
about 45 km west-north-west of Warrnambool Airport
State
Victoria
Report status
Pending
Investigation level
Short
Investigation type
Occurrence Investigation
Investigation phase
Evidence collection
Investigation status
Active
Aviation occurrence category
Near collision
Occurrence class
Serious Incident
Highest injury level
None
Anticipated completion

The ATSB is investigating a near collision involving an Airbus EC135 helicopter, registered VH-UJB, and an Aero Commander 690-A aircraft, registered VH-ATF, about 45 km west-north-west of Warrnambool Airport, Victoria, on 12 March 2025.

During aerial firefighting operations, the crew of the Airbus EC135 detected the Aero Commander 690-A in close proximity on TCAS. No radio calls were heard from the 690-A and the EC135 manoeuvred to establish separation.

The evidence collection phase of the investigation will involve interviewing involved parties, 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.

Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Airbus Helicopters
Model
EC135 P3
Registration
VH-UJB
Aircraft Operator
Microflite Pty Ltd
Serial number
2006
Operation type
Part 138 Aerial work operations
Sector
Helicopter
Departure point
Hamilton Airport, Vic.
Destination
Hamilton Airport, Vic.
Damage
Nil
Aircraft Details
Manufacturer
Aero Commander
Model
690-A
Registration
VH-ATF
Aircraft Operator
General Aviation Maintenance Pty Ltd.
Serial number
11158
Operation type
Part 138 Aerial work operations
Sector
Turboprop
Departure point
Hamilton Airport, Vic.
Destination
Hamilton Airport, Vic.
Damage
Nil