TAIC inquiry into helicopter accident near Nelson
MEDIA STATEMENT
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has opened an inquiry into a non-fatal accident involving a helicopter
engaged in firefighting operations near Nelson today (17 February).
The circumstances reported to date are that the AS350 (Squirrel) helicopter was operating with a monsoon bucket over the
Pigeon Valley area near Nelson. Something caused the pilot to conduct an emergency landing. The helicopter landed
heavily and the sole pilot received moderate injuries. The nature of damage to the helicopter is yet to be established.
The Commission has appointed a team of two investigators for this inquiry, and they are making preparations to travel to
the site as soon as practicable.
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