Helicopter passenger dies in freak accident after bird flies into cabin
The 44-year-old was fatally struck by the bird, which ricocheted into the cabin near Gapuwiyak, in northeastern Arnhem Land, around 2pm on Monday.
NT Police are now investigating the fatal incident after the helicopter was forced to make an emergency landing at the Lake Evella airstrip.
An officer said the aircraft was carrying two people at the time of the accident.
'The impact allegedly caused the bird to fatally strike a 44-year-old male passenger,' they said.
The pilot was able to escape uninjured but their passenger was declared dead at the scene.
NT WorkSafe have also commenced an investigation.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau have been notified of the incident.
A report will now be prepared for the coroner.
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