2002 Cessna 207 Mountain Collision Near Milford Sound (ZK-SEV)

Flight and Accident Details On Saturday, 19 January 2002, at 0931, Cessna 207 registration ZK-SEV departed Te Anau Aerodrome for Milford Sound Aerodrome. At about 1000, the aircraft collided with the side of a mountainous valley approximately 4,400 feet above sea level. The impact occurred 500 metres southeast of Gertrude Saddle, about 11 kilometres from Milford Sound. The pilot and five passengers died in the collision. ## Official Findings The investigation found that the pilot was appropriately qualified, fit, and authorised for the flight. Aircraft records indicated the Cessna 207 was properly maintained, airworthy, appropriate for the purpose, and approved for air transport operations. Weather conditions were suitable for the flight. The aircraft probably had not reached a suitable altitude to safely cross Gertrude Saddle. The pilot probably left the decision too late to turn back in the valley to gain more height. The pilot probably elected to use a left reverse turn as an escape option after recognising that a safe crossing was unlikely, but the manoeuvre was initiated too late to be completed safely. The investigation also noted that the pilot may have misjudged the strength of the tailwind and the aircraft’s ground speed, as well as any downdraughts, while approaching Gertrude Saddle. As a result, the closing speed with the saddle and the aircraft’s low height may have caught the pilot by surprise. The delayed action in initiating the reverse turn away from Gertrude Saddle was probably a prime contributing factor. Pilot inexperience may also have contributed. ## Safety Observations The official findings stated that current aeroplane pilot training requirements are not sufficient to ensure pilots are suitably equipped to handle the demanding flying challenges that mountainous environments can present. The findings and safety recommendations were listed in order of development rather than in order of priority.