Background

EFM were engaged to transport a Bell 412 Helicopter and its associated equipment from Mudgee, NSW, to our client’s Sydney Terminal. Due to the high value and sensitive mechanical components, the operation required careful planning, specialised equipment, and strict adherence to safety and handling procedures.

Brief

Our objective: safely collect, load, secure, and transport one Bell 412 helicopter and its associated components from MKR Choppers. Ensuring the cargo was delivered damage-free and ready for scheduled loading on Tuesday, 16 December 2025. The movement involved out-of-gauge dimensions, requiring permits, precise lifting and vibration-controlled transport to protect the transmission and engines.

Delivery

To minimise shock and vibration, the helicopter was transported using a truck and trailer fitted with air-ride suspension. An advance out-of-gauge permit was secured, covering an over-height of +1.02 m and an over-width of +28 cm.

Following a site safety briefing conducted by MKR’s Manager and Chief Engineer, loading commenced at 0600hrs. A crane sub-contractor arrived at 0700hrs, and all flat racks were inspected with no damage identified. Using soft slings, MKR personnel positioned the helicopter for lifting, and the fuselage was safely craned from the end gate.

The fuselage was bolted to a metal frame and placed on rubber matting to prevent any metal-to-metal contact. Timber chocking was installed around the frame to eliminate movement during transit. Associated equipment crates were carefully positioned on the flat racks, with final boxes bolted to crate bases for added stability. The landing gear and tail section were loaded, bolted, and securely lashed.

A total of ten 2.5-tonne nylon ratchet straps were used to secure the fuselage and crates. Final lashing was completed at 12:10hrs, and the transport departed the MKR premises at 12:15hrs.

Result

Successful delivery to the end point Terminal in Sydney happened on schedule, with no damage reported throughout loading or transport. The cargo was positioned in an undercover laydown area and prepared for its planned vessel loading. EFM successfully executed this complex, high-value, out-of-gauge air freight operation with precision and care.