ElectraNet pilot dies laying powerlines

ElectraNet

A helicopter pilot has died after crashing near a mine site in rural South Australia while stringing powerlines.

According to the ABC, the incident occurred around 10:50am on Wednesday, March 20, about three kilometres from OZ Minerals’ Carrapateena copper mine.

The 45-year-old pilot, a contractor for ElectraNet, was the only person on board.

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The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) said early reports suggested the helicopter likely crashed into a power pole while it was stringing powerlines.

In a statement, ElectraNet said, “ElectraNet is deeply saddened to confirm that a fatality has occurred this morning in an incident involving one of our contractors working on a project in the upper north of the state”.

“Our thoughts are with the pilot’s family and colleagues at this time.

“ElectraNet is cooperating with all relevant authorities investigating this incident.”

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) is investigating the crash, including an examination of the wreckage, interviews with witnesses and obtaining any available data for analysis, amongst other activities.

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