The tragic mid-air collision that resulted in the death of helicopter pilot Ashley Jenkinson may have been influenced by several factors, including cocaine withdrawal, an alcohol hangover, and fatigue, according to recent evidence presented to a coroner.
A toxicologist, who had previously testified in the high-profile trial of Erin Patterson, was part of a panel of experts providing insights during an inquest into the unfortunate incident, which took place on Wednesday.
Ashley Jenkinson, aged 40, lost his life along with three others when his Sea World helicopter tragically collided with another helicopter near the Gold Coast theme park on January 2, 2023.
Forensic pharmacologist Judith Perl shared her analysis, indicating that while it was possible Jenkinson’s capacity to operate the helicopter was compromised, she did not find it probable. Perl noted the potential influence of poor-quality cocaine on his condition.
In addition to Jenkinson, the collision claimed the lives of British newlyweds Ronald and Diane Hughes, aged 65 and 67, as well as Vanessa Tadros, a 36-year-old mother from Sydney. The harrowing incident continues to be a sobering reminder of the multifaceted risks involved in aviation.
Jenkinson was killed along with British newlyweds Ronald and Diane Hughes – aged 65 and 67 – and Sydney mother Vanessa Tadros, 36, in the 2023 mid-air collision.
His aircraft collided 25 seconds after take-off with another Sea World Helicopter that was preparing to land at a waterside helipad at the theme park.
Nine passengers across both helicopters were injured.
Sea World owner Village Roadshow Theme Parks sold its joy flights operation to Sea World Helicopters in 2019.
The inquest will hear from Sea World Helicopters executives next week.
