Robinson R22 Helicopter Crash-Lands Near Arrowtown, Mount Hyde – New Zealand

Date:
29-JAN-2024

Time:
19:15

Type of Aircraft:
Robinson R22

Owner/Operator:
Private

Fatalities:
0 / Occupants: 2

Aircraft Damage:
Substantial

Location:
near Arrowtown, Mount Hyde – New Zealand

Phase:
Landing

Nature:
Private

Circumstances:

**In a concerning incident near Arrowtown, a Robinson R22 helicopter crash-landed on Mount Hyde under unknown circumstances around 19:15 on Monday, 29 January 2024. Remarkably, both occupants of the helicopter emerged without injuries despite the substantial damage sustained by the aircraft. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of New Zealand and the Rescue Co-ordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ) responded promptly to the accident. An EMS helicopter from Helicopters Otago was dispatched to the scene, successfully retrieving the two individuals aboard the R22. The CAA has commenced an investigation into the crash, primarily focused on the circumstances surrounding the landing phase. A comprehensive report submitted by the pilot is aiding the CAA’s evaluation process. The damaged helicopter is expected to be removed from Mount Hyde today, with police acknowledging the RCCNZ’s leading role in the rescue efforts. This incident has highlighted the effectiveness of New Zealand’s aviation emergency response systems while raising questions about the safety measures in place for private helicopter operations in the region.**