The minimal clearance from obstructions, unfavourable surface conditions and a lack of appropriate wind indication at the helicopter landing site (HLS) increased the risk associated with operations to the HLS, particularly for a pilot unfamiliar with the site.
The ATSB is satisfied that the action by the owner of the Shoalwater Bay training area HLSs adequately addresses this safety issue and therefore makes no recommendation.
An independent safety audit of all Shoalwater Bay training area HLSs was carried out following the accident. In response to recommendations made in that report, vegetation was cleared at the Double Mountain South HLS to provide obstruction-free approach and departure paths into the prevailing wind, a wind indicator in the form of windsock was installed and a steel deck was constructed to provide a level landing surface that was clear of rocks and tree stumps. Similar work was carried out at other HLSs and one HLS was relocated to a more favourable location.
The ATSB is satisfied that the action by the owner of the Shoalwater Bay training area HLSs adequately addresses this safety issue and therefore makes no recommendation.
