What happened
On 10 November 2007, a Fletcher FU24-950EX, registration ZK-EGV, was performing aerial top-dressing operations on a farm south of Opotiki. The aircraft, a turbine-powered model, was engaged in spreading superphosphate when it descended into a grove of native trees in a nearby gully. The pilot, who was the sole occupant of the aircraft, was killed in the impact. The wreckage was discovered by police later that afternoon, approximately 600 metres from the active top-dressing area.
The investigation
Investigators examined the flight history, the aircraft's mechanical state, and the pilot's recent activities. While the aircraft had undergone a conversion to turbine power, no mechanical failure was identified as the primary cause of the crash. However, the investigation revealed that the pilot had been involved in a lengthy period of communication via a cellphone installed in the cockpit. Telephone records showed the aircraft's phone had been used for numerous calls and texts throughout the day, including a continuous conversation that lasted over 35 minutes.
Additionally, the investigation looked into the pilot's recent training and the aircraft's maintenance records. It was noted that while the pilot was experienced, some recent competency checks may not have strictly adhered to regulatory requirements. The investigation also found that the aircraft's emergency locator transmitter was not functioning correctly due to a damaged antenna socket and improper installation.
Findings
While the exact reason for the collision with the terrain could not be definitively proven, the investigation identified several contributing factors. The pilot was experiencing fatigue from recent physical exertion and a demanding work schedule. This fatigue, combined with the distraction of a prolonged cellphone conversation and a minor equipment malfunction involving the GPS guidance system, likely diverted the pilot's attention away from maintaining the flight path.
Safety action
Following the accident, the operator implemented a new policy strictly prohibiting the use of cellphones for voice or text messaging during agricultural operations, limiting use to ground idle or ferry flights above 500 feet. The Commission also recommended that the Director of Civil Aviation address safety concerns regarding pilot cellphone use during critical flight phases, the validity of pilot competency checks in single-seat aircraft, and the proper installation of emergency locator transmitters.