Two people died when their light aircraft crashed into rugged terrain near Castor Peak in New Zealand’s Bryant Range.
The Cessna 172P Skyhawk departed from Nelson Airport at about 9.10am on November 3. Flight data from Flightradar24 showed the four-seat aircraft reached 944m before a sharp descent.
That descent lasted 90 seconds. Authorities were notified just before midday that the flight was overdue.
Maritime New Zealand’s Rescue Co-ordination Centre organized a search after the alert. Police and aviation authorities confirmed the departure time.
Police formally identified the victims as Nicholas Charles Taylor, 67, of Alexandra, and Alain Henri Copine, 76, a Belgian national. The Post reported the identifications, according to Thepost.
Central Otago Flying Club president Kurt Verduyn paid tribute to Taylor. He was a well-respected member of our club,
Verduyn said, as reported by ODT. He was also a much-liked member of the wider local flying community.
His contribution to the area will be remembered,
Verduyn added. Our thoughts are with Nick’s family, friends, colleagues and everyone who knew him at this difficult time.
The Rescue Co-ordination Centre deployed two rescue helicopters from Nelson and Wellington. Rescuers located the wreckage approximately 20km northeast of Nelson in the Bryant Range near North Castor Peak, Newstalk ZB reported.
Nelson area police commander Steven Collins noted the aircraft was found in a remote area near the Nelson-Marlborough boundary. Hazy weather conditions and rugged terrain hampered rescue efforts.
Detective Jonathan Evans confirmed that the bodies of the two occupants were recovered from the site at approximately 4pm on Thursday.
Police formally thanked the New Zealand Defence Force and Fire and Emergency New Zealand for their assistance in accessing the difficult terrain. FlyInn released a statement on its website following the incident.
It is with an incredibly heavy heart we wish to advise one of our aircraft was involved in an accident,
FlyInn stated, according to 1News, according to 1news. The accident occurred in an area of New Zealand’s South Island.
Our thoughts are first and foremost with those directly affected, their families, and loved ones,
the firm stated. The company added that every aircraft in its fleet carried an experienced mountain pilot and instructor.
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission opened a formal inquiry into the crash. Chief investigator of accidents Louise Cook stated that the investigation would examine the cause of the accident, RNZ reported.
The inquiry will identify safety lessons for the aviation sector. Officials confirmed that the registered aircraft, ZK-BFQ, was destroyed in the incident.
What caused the Cessna 172P Skyhawk to descend sharply during its November 3 flight?