The families of three tourists killed in a helicopter collision have given emotional statements about their loss and ongoing struggles, leaving a coroner visibly affected.

The company now operating as Surfers Paradise Helicopters had brought in a suite of new controls aimed at preventing another crash, an inquest heard.

A helicopter pilot in a fatal midair collision during a theme park scenic flight was likely impaired by cocaine, alcohol and little sleep in the days prior, a coroner has heard.