The Australian Transport Safety Bureau’s (ATSB) report, released yesterday, found fuel exhaustion caused the February 2022 crash that killed the 34-year-old Wilson while he was collecting crocodile eggs in the Northern Territory.
It also found the helicopter operator wasn’t using its safety management system while Wilson was being carried 20 metres above ground on a slingline, and that it had a “history of non-compliance with regulatory requirements”.
Asked about those findings by 9News at Darwin Airport today, Wright disputed that conclusion.
“No, there’s systems in place,” Wright told 9News.
“There always has been.”
Wright also described the crash as an accident and said there had been “no failure with the aircraft”.
“It’s just a sad day for everyone,” he said.
“The more you guys keep dragging this out, all it does is hurt everyone. It’s a sad day.”
Wright is one of three men who has been charged over what prosecutors allege was an attempt to derail an investigation into the crash.
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He is on bail while facing several charges – including attempting to pervert the course of justice, destroying evidence, and threats/reprisals to interfere with witnesses – and will front a committal hearing in two weeks’ time.
Wright has consistently denied any wrongdoing in the matter.
The ATSB report is a “no-blame” investigation, meaning it won’t be used in the court case, although the Northern Territory Police confirmed it provided evidence to the safety body.
“Northern Territory (NT) Police have shared a comprehensive investigation file with the Director of Public Prosecutions, NT Worksafe, and the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA),” it said today.
“The file includes maintenance and fuel records, expert opinions concerning the fuel system and airworthiness of the stricken aircraft, and toxicology analyses of individuals involved in the crash.
“These agencies are currently examining the culpability of individuals and entities with respect to the tragic death of Christopher ‘Willow’ Wilson.
“Detectives have also provided comprehensive evidence to the ATSB to assist with their safety-focussed investigation…
“The NT Police would like to remind everyone to respect the wishes of Willow’s family and the coronial and judicial process and ensure public commentary does not undermine or subvert these important processes.”
It encouraged anyone with information about the incident to contact authorities.
