From the CAA’s Investigations team.
Collaborate with other PCBUs at the same worksite
Photo: iStock.com/VisualCommunications
A routine helicopter lifting job turned into a cautionary tale for aviation operators and contractors alike. An AS350 B3 accidentally swung its long-line hook into a ute owned by another company at the worksite. One worker was injured.
A CAA review found that a lack of coordination between the two companies contributed to what could have easily been a very serious accident.
Key takeaways
- Under section 34 of the Health and Safety at Work Act, multiple PCBUs sharing a workplace must consult, cooperate, and coordinate to manage risks.
- Both parties had safety systems but failed to apply them collaboratively.
The CAA’s response
The CAA took an educative approach, helping both operators reflect on and improve the way they coordinate with others at the same worksite.
Hot fuelling – not for bright sparks…
Photo: iStock.com/ElsvanderGun
Two recent incidents have highlighted the ongoing risks of hot fuelling (fuelling with the engine running). In one case, a light aircraft was refuelled at a regional aerodrome while the engine remained running, and passengers were disembarking from a nearby aircraft. In another, a microlight pilot refuelled with a passenger still on board and the engine operating.
In both cases, the pilots were unaware of Civil Aviation Rule 91.15(2), which prohibits refuelling with Class 3.1A flammable liquids (such as Avgas) while the engine is running or while people are on board.
Key takeaways
- CAR 91.15(2) is clear — no refuelling with engines running or passengers on board.
- Parking brakes and low RPM settings are not substitutes for shutting down.
- Plan ahead — if operational constraints arise, tow the aircraft or delay fuelling until safe procedures can be followed.
- Model safe behaviour — experienced pilots must lead by example.
The CAA’s response
The CAA initially chose to educate the pilots and reinforce their understanding of the rule. However, both had a history of unsafe practice, so they were issued with infringement notices.