News 2025

Aviation TAIC inquiry proves vortex ring state safety risk for helicopters worldwide
A rescue helicopter crashed in mountainous terrain after entering vortex ring state—a dangerous flight condition where the main rotor loses lift in descent rate increases. Key safety points:
o Pilots need a deep understanding of how VRS develops
o Flight manuals must Identify the flight conditions and parameters conducive to VRS
o VRS alert systems could prevent future accidents

Marine Fatigue led to cruise vessel impacting Doubtful Sound mountainside
The fatigued master of a cruise vessel almost certainly fell asleep at the helm and it ran aground. TAIC found gaps in fatigue management, monitoring of medical fitness, and risk controls for sole-charge masters. Several passengers and crew suffered minor injuries, but the emergency response was effective. The vessel’s operator has since strengthened fatigue policies, added support roles, and improved safety oversight.

Marine TAIC report on iCatcher accident reveals issues with 111 system, lifejackets, marine regulations-
New TAIC report highlights nationwide and international safety issues, including emergency equipment, NZ emergency rescue sector, maritime regulations, standards.

Marine Newsletter: Watchkeeping an issue for stranded fishing vessel
All seafarers, fishing vessel owners and operators, fishing vessel insurers and maritime training schools will benefit from a better understanding of how safety improves with good watchkeeping and crew members who are alert to their surroundings and ready and able to speak up when they notice danger.

Rail Newsletter: Long COVID affects operators of heavy machinery
Employers and managers of safety-critical workers, please note: workplace safety risk from after-effects of acute illnesses such as COVID-19. Can impair workers’ concentration, memory and thinking, including their ability to reliably self-assess as being fit to return to work. TAIC reports on occurrence where coal train missed and passed a stop signal, potentially into conflict with oncoming freight train.