Three airlifted from NSW chopper crash

NSW Ambulance was called to the Kosciuszko National Park just before noon on Friday after reports a helicopter had crashed near the Guthega power station.

Five men, including the pilot, were on board the Bell 206L helicopter.

They were conducting aerial surveying work for the National Parks and Wildlife Service when the helicopter crashed into the Snowy River, near Guthega dam.

Critical care doctors and paramedics were winched down to the remote scene.

The pilot was flown to Canberra Hospital in a serious but stable condition with head, back and possibly spinal injuries.

Two of the passengers were flown to the same facility for assessment on possible spinal damage, while the two remaining passengers were able to walk away with minor injuries.

They were driven to Cooma Hospital for further assessment.

NSW Ambulance Acting Inspector Jennifer Barker said the fact nobody died in the incident "is either good luck or good piloting".

Crews had difficulty accessing the remote scene.

"Having rescue helicopters with winching capabilities was critical to getting everyone treated and safely extricated as quickly as possible," Ms Barker said.

NSW Environment Minister James Griffin confirmed the helicopter was carrying National Parks and Wildlife Service staff.

"The NPWS family is incredibly professional, dedicated and close-knit, and I know this will affect everyone deeply, as it has me," Mr Griffin said.

Australian Transport Safety Bureau chief commissioner Angus Mitchell said an investigation has commenced and safety investigators will be on the scene from Saturday morning.

"Investigators will examine the wreckage and site surrounds, and will retrieve any relevant components for further examination," Mr Mitchell said.

Those on board the helicopter will also be interviewed as part of the ATSB investigation into the cause of the crash.

Australian Associated Press