Operator of drone involved in near collision with helicopter unknown

An investigation into a near collision between the Hunter’s rescue helicopter and a drone has failed to find the operator of the unmanned aerial vehicle.

In its final report the Australian Transport Safety Bureau says the rescue helicopter was heading back to its Broadmeadow base from the John Hunter Hospital in March when the pilot saw a steady white light.

As the chopper was starting its decent to the helipad the light crossed very quickly from the pilot’s left to right and then headed away from the helicopter.

The light then made an abrupt turn back towards the aircraft and a drone was observed hovering above the helicopter.

The ATSB says a football match was played that night at the nearby Hunter Stadium but the venue had no knowledge of a drone being used in the vicinity for aerial photography.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority says it appears the unmanned aerial vehicle was being operated by someone either through a pair of goggles or by looking at a screen.

The operator of drone has not be identified.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-05-26/operator-of-drone-involved-in-near-collision-unknown/5478760