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Aviation TAIC Final Report - fatal in-flight breakup of helicopter at Lake Wanaka, July 2018
Fatal R44 helicopter in-flight break-up. Main rotor blade bent, struck cabin. Likely cause: mast bumping in strong unexpected turbulence, speed a factor. Turbulence is a major risk for Robinson helicopters; pilots should plan for it.
Aviation Closure of inquiries into 787 Rolls-Royce engine issues, December 2017
The Commission has resolved its inquiries into two incidents involving Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines on Boeing 787s, late 2017. TAIC satisfied with engine maker’s safety improvements and turbine blade replacement programme.

Marine TAIC assisting Panama investigation into loss of Gulf Livestock 1
Panama’s inquiry into the loss in the South China Sea of the Gulf Livestock 1 is receiving assistance from TAIC. Under international protocols, investigations into accidents on the high seas fall to the vessel’s flag state – in this case, Panama.
Rail TAIC investigating Bus v locomotive accident at Bunnythorpe
TAIC has opened an inquiry into the causes and circumstances of a the accident involving a railway locomotive and a bus between Palmerston North and Bunnythorpe. The bus driver was fatally injured as a result of the accident. It is reported that the level crossing was protected with flashing lights and bells. TAIC calling for witnesses.

TAIC statement on Gulf Livestock 1 accident
The Gulf Livestock 1 accident occurred on the high seas. International protocols governing investigations in this situation fall to the vessel’s flag state – Panama. TAIC has been in touch with Panama to offer assistance if required.

Marine New inquiry into loss of power on bulk carrier Funing
New TAIC inquiry: Bulk carrier Funing-9690913, departing Tauranga harbour, in main channel, when it lost power, dropped anchors, was assisted by tugs. No pollution nor injuries reported.
Marine TAIC report – log ship seaman fatally injured when cable snapped
TAIC report: On a ship loading logs, a seaman was fatally injured, hit by equipment recoiling when wire snapped. Crew lacked guidance on hazards & safe working. Operator’s safety management system lacked safety assessment.

Marine TAIC reports on fatality on factory trawler
New TAIC report. A factory trawler worker died on becoming trapped in machinery. Safety for machinery operators depends on everyone understanding how a piece of machinery works; how people work with it; and thinking about the hazards.
Marine TAIC report – alcohol impaired driver in fatal jet boat accident
A recreational jet boat with four people on board crashed on a gravel river bar. One passenger died; two others hospitalised. Risk factors: insufficient planning; insufficient daylight; too much speed and too much alcohol. TAIC is calling for more data collection on alcohol impairment, and new legislation or rules to prohibit people in safety-critical roles being impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Aviation TAIC final report: Robinson R22 impact with Terrain passenger aircraft landing gear failure April 2017
Circumstances of this fatal helicopter crash into dense forest included: risky take-off towards and over treetops; old worn engine lacked power; and aircraft not airworthy. Also private pilot licence conditions breached (flying for payment or reward). Lessons about obeying Civil Aviation Rules; reporting concerns; CAA monitoring of nominally private aviation participants