What happened
On the afternoon of 3 December 2001, a Robinson R44 Astro, registration ZK-HTK, was performing a commercial charter flight to recover two hunters from a remote campsite in Urewera National Park. The flight was intended to transport the passengers from the Anini River area back to Ruatahuna, following weather-related delays that had left the hunters stranded for several days.
While navigating through low cloud and poor visibility, the helicopter struck trees in the Te Rake Range. The impact caused the aircraft to crash and subsequently catch fire. Of the three people on board, two fatalities occurred. One passenger managed to escape the burning wreckage and survived for two days before being rescued by search crews on 5 December.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight history, weather conditions, and the pilot's experience. It was noted that the pilot had attempted an earlier flight that day but was unable to reach the campsite due to bad weather. On the successful arrival at the campsite, the pilot informed the passengers that he would attempt to fly them out despite the fog, with the plan to return to the camp if conditions deteriorated.
Investigators analyzed the meteorological data, which indicated drizzly rain and low cloud bases. The investigation also looked into the pilot's professional background, noting that while he was a licensed commercial pilot, he had relatively limited experience operating in such marginal weather conditions.
Findings
- The collision with the trees was likely caused by reduced visibility while the pilot was flying at a very low altitude above the forest canopy.
- The pilot's lack of experience in conducting commercial operations during low cloud and poor visibility contributed to the accident.
- A perceived sense of urgency, driven by the fact that one passenger was running out of essential medication, may have influenced the decision to proceed with the flight.
- The aircraft was flying over the highest terrain on the route, an area where weather conditions were likely at their worst due to orographic lifting and moisture.