What happened
On 26 October 2007, a Cessna A152 Aerobat, registered ZK-KID, was conducting a cross-country navigation training flight through the Te Urewera National Park. The flight, operated by Bay Flight International Limited, involved an instructor and a student pilot. During the exercise, the crew performed several maneuvers, including a simulated forced landing and a lost procedure exercise.
While navigating near Ruatahuna, the aircraft followed a road that led into a rising, narrow valley. As the terrain increased in elevation, the aircraft encountered turbulence and localized downdrafts. While attempting to navigate a bend in the road and approach a saddle, the aircraft entered a steep right turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck trees on the eastern side of the valley, causing the plane to fall nose-first to the ground. The impact resulted in one fatality (the instructor) and serious injuries to the student pilot.
The investigation
TAIC investigators examined the wreckage and the flight history to determine the cause of the crash. The investigation established that the aircraft was airworthy and the engine was at full power at the time of impact. The investigation also looked into the flight planning and the specific maneuvers being practiced, noting that the crew was performing a lost procedure exercise that involved flying at a low altitude.
Findings
- The instructor lacked the specific training and skills required to manage flight in mountainous or adverse terrain.
- The decision to fly at a low level through rising terrain was unnecessary and not approved under regulations.
- The instructor entered a valley at a height that left no possibility for an escape maneuver.
- The aircraft's low airspeed during the turn limited its ability to maintain altitude or climb over the approaching saddle.
- The low-level flying performed during the training exercise was not justified by the flight objectives.