Helicopter Pilot in Fatal Australia Hotel Crash Was Ground Crew Who’d Attended a Party
A helicopter crashed into the roof of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Cairns, Australia, early on August 12, 2024, resulting in the death of the pilot, who was not authorized to fly. The pilot, an employee of Nautilus Aviation, had attended a party the night before to celebrate a promotion within the company. The crash led to the evacuation of hundreds of guests and staff, with two holidaymakers sustaining minor injuries.
Queensland Police confirmed the flight was unauthorized, and investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash, including visibility conditions at the time. Witnesses reported seeing the helicopter flying low before it struck the hotel, igniting flames and spilling fuel across the roof.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is involved in the investigation, seeking to understand the helicopter's flight path and equipment. They have called for any witnesses with photos or videos to come forward to assist in the inquiry.