Accident to the helicopter AS350 registered ZK-HKW on 14/02/2017 near Christchurch [investigation led by TAIC / New-Zealand]
Heurt de l'élingue avec le RAC, perte de contrôle en vol, collision avec le relief, lors d'une operation de lutte contre l'incendie
Responsible entity
Preliminary data based on the notification from the authorities of New-Zealand :
The helicopter was returning from the face of the fire to replenish the suspended fire bucket when the pilot made a mayday call. The helicopter struck a hillside shortly after, killing the pilot.