News all

The accident helicopter in 2013

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.

Photo - one of the engines, opened for inspection

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.

Photo of Gulf Livestock 1 in 2018

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. 

Photo of the level crossing / Google

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.

Photo of Gulf Livestock 1 taken in 2018

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.

The Funing being assisted by Port of Tauranga tugs, off Mauao-Mt Maunganui. Photo_Stu James via SunLive

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.

Photo-diagram showing location of crew and cables just before the accident

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.

Photo of the San Granit at the wharf

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.

Image shows river layout and course of boat

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.

Photo of the wrecked helicopter at the accident site

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