Picture Credits: ABC News
Victoria, AUSTRALIA: A morning flight turned into a rescue operation off Victoria’s southern coast on Thursday, as a helicopter carrying three individuals crashed into the shallow waters near Point Lonsdale. All three survived the crash but sustained serious injuries.
Emergency Landing Turns to Emergency Response
The crash occurred around 10:00 a.m. local time, just off the shoreline near the Bellarine Peninsula. Witnesses reported the helicopter flying unusually low before it descended abruptly into water, approximately 30 to 50 meters from the coast.
First responders, including Victoria Police, paramedics, and surf life-saving teams, reached the crash site with difficulty due to thick scrubland and restricted road access. Emergency crews relied on local assistance, including surf buggies, to navigate the rugged terrain and reach the victims.
Picture Credits: ABC News
Among the injured were the male pilot and two passengers, a man and a woman. Two were airlifted to Royal Melbourne Hospital with serious injuries, while the third was taken by ambulance to Geelong University Hospital. As of press time, all three remain under medical care.
Notably, a local jogger is credited with pulling the female passenger from the wreckage immediately after the crash. The bystander’s quick action likely prevented further harm before official teams arrived on the scene.
Investigation Underway
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. Initial assessments are being conducted in coordination with Victoria Police, and a formal report is expected in the coming weeks.
Picture Credits: ABC News
Though the registration and operational details of the helicopter have not yet been disclosed, officials confirmed it was operating a local flight. Aviation authorities are now working to piece together the flight path, pilot communications, and any signs of mechanical failure.
Local authorities have urged anyone who may have witnessed the crash or captured footage of the helicopter’s final moments to come forward to aid the ongoing investigation.
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