TWO men were lucky to escape relatively unscathed after their helicopter went down, slamming into the ground near Armidale.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Emergency services rushed to the paddock on a property off Dumaresq Dam Rd just after 4pm yesterday.
Miraculously, the pilot and passenger were able to climb out with just minor injuries.
Armidale police Inspector Roger Best said the two 38-year-old men were treated at the scene by ambulance paramedics before being taken to Armidale hospital in a stable condition.
“The two-seater helicopter was on a routine flight and made a forced landing,” he said.
“Some damage was occasioned to the helicopter during the landing.
“When police arrived the helicopter was on its side.”
The Fleet Helicopters chopper was on a training exercise. CEO Mike Watson has praised the crew.
“It was a during a training exercise. Our pilot did an amazing job to ensure everyone got out safely,” he said.
“The aircraft accident is the subject of a full investigation by authorities.
“It’s not appropriate for us to comment or speculate about what might have happened.”
Inspector Best said the Australian Transport Safety Bureau had been notified.
“The site has been cleared and the Australian Transport Safety Bureau will conduct an investigation off-site,” he said.
