New AW139 rescue helicopters have hit a snag in Northern New South Wales, as they are too large for the helipads, causing an excess downwash. These helicopters are now unable to land at eight of the regional helipads.

Adam Marshalls, Northern Tablelands MP, has commented how he is perplexed at how health management did not take this into account beforehand. Currently, private land, airports and sporting fields are being used as alternate landing areas. ABC News reports that Brad Hazzard, Health Minister, has said that the Government is now planning for the upgrades of the affected helipads.