Latest updates
Rail Derailment report - Rules don’t keep overstretched workers safe
The lesson for all high-risk work sites: don’t rely on procedures alone; physical protections are essential. TAIC recommends that KiwiRail: Improve authorisation for rail movements; require physical protections for removed track; and ensure staffing levels and support for critical roles.
Marine TAIC reports on a failure of basic seamanship
Grounding near Auckland: new TAIC report reminds us why the basics always matter. This is a real-world case study and useful training material for what can go wrong when safety critical staff overlook the basics.
Aviation TAIC reports on likely near collision of drone and passenger jet
A drone likely came close to an passenger jet on approach to a major NZ airport, the drone being in breach of NZ civil aviation rules. TAIC recommends drone registration, remote ID, and geo-fencing, calls on Ministry of Transport and CAA to modernise drone regulations in line with international…
Marine Substandard ships should be banned from New Zealand
Deferred maintenance is a risk in itself. It’s virtually certain the container ship Shiling was unseaworthy when in NZ, despite holding valid certificates. Shiling twice needed to be rescued and towed. TAIC identifies…
TAIC reports on Boeing 777 veering off runway
TAIC reports on Boeing 777 passenger jet veering off runway: heavy rain contributed to late transition from autopilot to manual control. The report has lessons for all aircraft operators: ensure crews know and…
Rail Newsletter: Freight train near miss with rail workers
TAIC report on rail near miss reinforces importance of effective supervision of trainees undertaking safety-critical tasks and robust engineering risk controls for complex systems.
Lessons for all industries…
Aviation Near-collision highlights safety lessons for all busy, unattended aerodromes
Two aircraft came within 20 feet of each other on final approach at night at Ardmore Airport. TAIC report highlights safety lessons for pilots, aircraft owners, engineers, and aerodrome operators at busy unattended…
Rail Passenger train parting exposes gaps in inspection and response
Passenger train parts at low speed, inspection and response gaps exposed.
A cracked coupler, unnoticed in maintenance, caused carriages on the TranzAlpine tourist train to part. Power braking stress, missed…
Aviation TAIC inquiry proves vortex ring state safety risk for helicopters worldwide
A rescue helicopter crashed in mountainous terrain after entering vortex ring state—a dangerous flight condition where the main rotor loses lift in descent rate increases. Key safety points:
o Pilots need a deep…