7 fatalities

Fatal Engine Failure During Climb at Picton-Koromiko Airport (ZK-WED)

Picton-Koromiko, New ZealandTakeoff (climb)

On January 2, 1986, a Cessna 207 Skywagon/Stationair (registration ZK-WED) operated by Outdoor Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Picton-Koromiko, New Zealand during takeoff. 7 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure for unknown reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into a field and caught fire after an engine failure during climb-out from Picton-Koromiko Airport, killing all seven occupants.

Incident Overview and Sequence of Events Following departure from Picton-Koromiko Airport, the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power while in the climb phase. The pilot attempted to return to the airport and initiated a downwind circuit. During this maneuver, the engine failed completely, leading to a stall. The aircraft subsequently crashed into a field and burst into flames. All seven people on board were killed in the accident. ## Official Findings The investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was an engine failure for unknown reasons. No specific aircraft type, registration, operator, or date was provided in the source material.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Jan 1986 Cessna 207 Skywagon/Stationair accident near Picton-Koromiko, New Zealand?

An aircraft crashed into a field and caught fire after an engine failure during climb-out from Picton-Koromiko Airport, killing all seven occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 2 Jan 1986 Cessna 207 Skywagon/Stationair accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 7 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Jan 1986 involved a Cessna 207 Skywagon/Stationair, registration ZK-WED, operated by Outdoor Aviation, at Picton-Koromiko, New Zealand.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Engine failure for unknown reasons.