Sea World incident
 

Without speculating on what ATSB will find/recommend, are there protocols for situations where two or more helicopters are operating concurrent short-duration joy flights, even from dedicated separate helipads? For example, is there a mandatory verbal co-ordination protocol in addition to the universal see and avoid imperative? Are they required to operate non-overlapping flight routes for example?

Hi Philip . On checking the VTC chart for the Gold Coast it appears that the base of controlled airspace in the area of concern is 1500’, below this it is Class G airspace and is as a consequence outside of controlled airspace ( OCTR ) . There is no clearance required to fly in Class G airspace , that may or may not be a contributing factor . There is also a CTAF radio frequency for Sea World operations , was it being used or monitored ? . All no doubt will be revealed in due course , however , irrespective of any findings it a tragedy that should not have happened .
Dave C

The area is covered by the Southport CTAF, so calls are required for departure, landing and circuit area

How many pax?
 

ATSB says 14 but news media say 13 ...

ATSB has released its preliminary report.

Pilot of landing chopper failed to hear call from takeoff chopper.

https://www.atsb.gov.au/publications...rt/ao-2023-001