What happened
On 17 August 2005, a Eurocopter AS350 BA helicopter, registration ZK-HGI, was conducting a charter flight to the Franz Josef Glacier in South Westland. The flight carried a pilot and seven passengers, including four adults and three children, intended for a scenic tour and a short walk on the glacier.
While attempting to land at the Geikie Snowfield, the aircraft entered a period of light blowing snow. As the pilot approached the landing site, the helicopter began to drift to the right. The skids subsequently caught in soft, deep snow, causing the aircraft to roll onto its right side. The pilot and all passengers were able to exit the wreckage safely and move away from the site. There were no injuries reported, though the passengers sustained minor bruising.
The investigation
Investigators examined the environmental conditions and the pilot's approach. They found that recent snowfall had buried the marker poles and flags used to identify the landing area. The investigation also looked into the pilot's flight path and the meteorological state of the glacier at the time of the accident.
Findings
- The pilot was experienced in mountain operations and was familiar with the Geikie Snowfield.
- High overcast skies and light blowing snow created a "flat light" effect, which significantly degraded surface definition.
- The landing site markers were obscured by recent snow, leaving the pilot without essential visual references.
- The pilot's choice of a north-easterly approach heading was a critical factor, as it directed the aircraft toward steep, rising terrain and deprived the crew of geographic landmarks.
- The aircraft was fully functional and maintained in a serviceable condition prior to the event.
Safety action
Following the incident, the operator and the pilot addressed the identified safety issues regarding white-out conditions and approach heading selection. The operator also planned to use the accident as a case study to review risk management strategies with other local operators.