Coroner's Finding: Corbin, Roger Paul

57y · Male·multiple injuries sustained in helicopter crash

Roger Corbin, a highly skilled and experienced helicopter pilot and instructor, died in a crash during emergency training on 7 November 2017. While instructing student John Osborne in a simulated hydraulic failure landing in an AS350 helicopter, the aircraft lost control during the final approach phase. Key contributing factors were: the absence of a pre-flight briefing between instructor and student on emergency procedures and risks; lack of a demonstration of the hydraulic failure procedure by Mr Corbin; conducting the landing in a significant crosswind contrary to the flight manual's requirement for into-wind approaches; deviation from the manufacturer's prescribed hydraulic switch sequence; and Mr Corbin's late intervention to regain control. The aircraft entered an uncontrollable hover at low altitude, was unable to recover, and nose-dived into the ground. While Mr Corbin's exceptional skill and judgement are evident throughout his career, this flight reveals the critical importance of adhering to pre-flight briefing protocols, demonstration procedures, manufacturer guidance, and timely instructor intervention during high-risk emergency training exercises.