Man Dies, Teenager Critically Injured in bankstown Helicopter Crash
Bankstown, NSW – A man has died and a teenager is in critical condition following a helicopter crash in Bankstown, Sydney, on friday, November 17, 2023. Emergency services were called to the scene near the Bankstown Airport shortly after 3:00 PM AEDT.
The helicopter, a piston engine aircraft, was conducting a training flight with a flight instructor and a student pilot when it impacted terrain and was fully destroyed. Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the cause of the crash, with the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) leading the inquiry. The identity of the deceased man is being withheld pending formal identification and notification of next of kin; a report will be prepared for the coroner.
The ATSB confirmed investigators are on-site,conducting a thorough examination of the wreckage and surrounding area. Planned activities include detailed mapping of the crash site, recovery of helicopter components for analysis at the ATSB’s technical facilities in Canberra, and a review of all relevant data. This includes flight tracking details, weather reports, and maintenance records for both the pilot and the aircraft.
“Investigators are also collecting relevant recorded information…,” the ATSB stated. The injured teenager received immediate medical attention at the scene and was transported to a hospital in critical condition.Further updates on their condition are expected as they receive treatment. The incident has prompted a extensive investigation into aviation safety protocols and training procedures in the region.
