The accident helicopter - file shot - photo supplied, all rights reserved by supplier
AO-2025-001 AS350 helicopter, hard landing, Mount Madeline, 12 January 2025
Status
Current
Occurrence Date
Jurisdiction
NZ
The circumstances reported to date are that on 12 January 2025 at about 17:30 an Airbus AS350 B3 ‘squirrel’ helicopter, registered ZK-ITY, was picking up passengers near Turners Bivouac on the upper slopes of Mount Madeline in the Darran Mountains of Fiordland National Park. During its final approach, the helicopter’s tail rotor reportedly contacted the ground. It landed hard with significant damage to its tail boom. No injuries reported for the pilot and crew member on board.
To preserve and protect evidence for the inquiry, the Commission has issued a protection order prohibiting any person from entering or accessing the helicopter and any associated items at the site.
[As initially reported. Subject to change. Not official Findings].
To preserve and protect evidence for the inquiry, the Commission has issued a protection order prohibiting any person from entering or accessing the helicopter and any associated items at the site.
[As initially reported. Subject to change. Not official Findings].