An investigation conducted by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau has determined that a pilot tragically crashed a helicopter into the roof of a Hilton hotel in far north Queensland while heavily intoxicated. The pilot, identified as Blake Wilson, had been celebrating his farewell party in Cairns before embarking on a flight without proper authorization.
Wilson, a qualified pilot with commercial licenses for Australia and New Zealand, was not cleared to fly for his employer, Nautilus Aviation, as he had been hired for ground staff duties. Despite this, he accessed a Robinson R44 helicopter from Cairns Airport after a night of drinking and crashed into the hotel just minutes into the flight.
The crash resulted in parts of the helicopter scattered across hotel rooms and the street below, causing a fire that led to the evacuation of 400 guests. Two individuals were treated for smoke inhalation as a result of the incident. Investigations revealed that Wilson had taken deliberate actions to conceal his unauthorized and ill-prepared flight, which ultimately led to the fatal crash.
The Australian Transport Bureau Safety Chief Commissioner, Angus Mitchell, stated that the pilot’s actions were solely responsible for the crash, as there were no mechanical failures involved. Despite the tragic outcome, no safety recommendations were issued, as the incident was attributed to the pilot’s unauthorized and alcohol-impaired decision-making.
Cairns, a popular tourist destination located north of Brisbane, serves as the backdrop for this unfortunate event that underscores the dangers of irresponsible aviation practices.
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