NSW helicopter escapee loses court fight

NSW prison escapee John Killick has lost his bid to beat a Queensland extradition order that could lead to more time behind bars.

Convicted armed robber John Killick has lost his NSW Supreme Court battle against extradition to Queensland.

Justice Carolyn Simpson has upheld an extradition order to send Killick north of the border.

"I left myself open for this, but you've got to deal with what you've done in the past," he told reporters on Thursday.

"The past is catching up but it's been great being out, and I've still got a chance."

The 72-year-old, who made a brazen escape from a Sydney prison in a helicopter hijacked by his then girlfriend in 1999, will be sent back to Queensland over an alleged breach of bail 21 years ago.

He must report to Queensland Police by June 27, and could be forced to serve the two-and-a-half-year balance of a sentence imposed for an armed robbery in 1983.

Killick's lawyer Eidan Havas said he would be looking for potential avenues for appeal.

He said he was also working with a solicitor in Queensland to seek a judicial review of the cancellation of Killick's parole.

But both men were prepared for Thursday's decision.

"Although we were optimistic and hopeful, we weren't surprised with today's decision," Mr Havas said.

"He was prepared for this, and he's prepared since day one to go to Queensland and do the time if required."


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