The airspace near the Sea World theme park on the Gold Coast will be reviewed by the safety regulator following the helicopter collision earlier this year which killed four people.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) said it is seeking feedback on possible changes to the airspace – which is currently uncontrolled – from pilots and operators.
The horror crash unfolded on January 2 when two helicopters collided, killing pilot Ash Jenkinson, British newlyweds Diane and Ron Hughes, and Sydney woman Vanessa Tadros.
Multiple people were also injured, including Melbourne mother Winnie De Silva, her nine-year-old son Leon, and Tadros’ 10-year-old son Nicholas.
CASA said an initial review of the airspace has not indicated there are any safety issues.
“While there’s no indication at this stage that airspace design played a part in this devastating accident, we want to make sure we’ve given all pilots and airspace users the opportunity to provide their views on airspace arrangements,” CASA branch manager air navigation, airspace and aerodromes, Adrian Slootjes, said.
“The first stage of this work involves collecting data to inform a formal airspace review.
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“We’ve had people on the ground last week observing operations and talking to operators. This will be used alongside information we receive through our broader consultation activities.
“We want all pilots and operators that fly in this area to let us know about their experiences.”
The move comes after Sea World Helicopters officially resumed joy flights in April.
The accident is subject to an Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) investigation that expected to be completed later this year.
CASA said it will be cooperating with the ATSB as it continues its investigation.
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