What happened
During a morning departure from Napier, a scenic flight intended to last approximately 90 minutes to Mt Ruapehu ended in a fatal accident. After the aircraft failed to return to its destination, search efforts were initiated. The deployment of an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) enabled rescuers to locate the wreckage in the afternoon, situated at the head of a blind valley.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the wreckage and the circumstances of the impact. Evidence at the scene indicated that the aircraft had struck trees. The nature of the collision was consistent with a deliberate attempt by the pilot to mitigate the impact forces on those on board. Furthermore, the investigation noted that the circumstances suggested the two passengers seated in the rear were not secured by their lapstraps at the time of the crash.
Findings
- The crash resulted in three fatalities and one person with serious injuries.
- The deceased included the co-pilot and one rear-seat passenger, who were found dead upon the arrival of the first rescuers. The pilot survived the initial impact but passed away after being transported to a hospital.
- The impact pattern suggests an intentional maneuver by the pilot to reduce the severity of the collision for the occupants.