URGENT UPDATE: A bush pilot testified today that he disposed of Chris “Willow” Wilson’s mobile phone following a tragic helicopter crash that claimed Wilson’s life and left pilot Sebastian Robinson severely injured. The testimony was delivered during the trial of reality TV star Matt Wright in the Supreme Court in Darwin, where he faces serious charges related to the February 2022 accident in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory.
JUST IN: Pilot Michael Burbidge, director of Remote Helicopters, recounted his harrowing experience at the crash site, stating he was the first to arrive after losing contact with Robinson’s helicopter. He described finding Wilson dead and Robinson critically injured while attempting to provide first aid. Burbidge was on the scene for approximately an hour, which he noted felt like an eternity, before additional help arrived.
Wright has pleaded not guilty to three counts of attempting to pervert the course of justice. Crown prosecutor Jason Gullaci SC clarified that Wright is not accused of causing the crash or Wilson’s death, but rather of trying to cover up concerns regarding improperly recorded flight hours that could lead to legal repercussions for himself and his company.
As Burbidge detailed the chaos of the scene, he disclosed that upon arriving, he was instructed to dispose of Wilson’s phone. He confirmed to the court that he “ditched it” during his flight home, making it clear that he acted independently. Later, he faced charges and a fine for this action after pleading guilty.
Burbidge also addressed accusations that he and Wright inspected the helicopter’s fuel tank and console. He affirmed he had no memory of these actions, despite other witnesses suggesting they occurred. The prosecution alleges Wright was anxious about the Hobbs flight-hour recording meter and its potential disconnection, a practice that could have inflated operational hours.
The court presented a covert recording in which Burbidge mentioned irregularities in a helicopter’s logbook. He explained this was a casual conversation about rumors, not concrete evidence against Wright. Defense attorney David Edwardson KC stressed that his client categorically denied any wrongdoing, such as attempting to manipulate flight records or encouraging others to destroy evidence.
The trial is expected to unfold over the next five weeks, with revelations that could have significant implications for Wright and others involved. As this story develops, the courtroom drama highlights the complexities surrounding aviation safety and regulatory compliance.
Stay tuned for further updates as this urgent case continues to unfold.
