Drug influence blamed for Sea World chopper crash

An inquest into the January 2, 2023, Sea World helicopter crash, which claimed four lives, heard claims that the pilot, Ash Jenkinson, was under the influence of drugs.

Sea World Helicopters' chief executive, Brett Newman, presented autopsy results showing cocaine remnants in Jenkinson's system. Newman asserted this constituted a gross, negligent act and was illegal, despite acknowledging an expert panel's inability to definitively link drug use to impaired flying ability.

Newman also suggested Jenkinson may have been distracted by his passengers, some of whom were family of the theme park's owners, during the critical take-off phase. He emphasized his company's zero-tolerance policy towards drugs and alcohol, asserting their pilot fitness requirements exceeded national standards.

The company, now operating as Surfers Paradise Helicopters, underwent random drug testing. Newman vehemently denied any prior knowledge of Jenkinson's drug use, stating he would have been terminated immediately if known.

The inquest, examining risk assessment failures, is scheduled to conclude on July 24.