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Rail Rail Safety: level crossing risks demand coordinated solutions
Level crossing safety is about more than the necessity of road users and pedestrians following the rules and looking out for trains. The TAIC Watchlist item on safety for pedestrians and vehicles at level crossings shows that safety depends on infrastructure, technology, systems and rules all working together. Any change in one aspect means planners must consider the others.
Aviation New TAIC inquiry into hot air balloon accident near Arrowtown
TAIC calling for witnesses to hot air balloon accident. Balloon experienced difficulty on landing, canopy contacted power lines, draped over a house. Of 11 on board, some ejected from basket in the process. Reportedly, several were injured, including hospitalisations. No fatalities reported.
Aviation TAIC reports on 2018 fatal helicopter forced landing of MD600N helicopter
Helicopter destroyed by heavy landing, severe on-ground shaking. All 5 on board injured, incl. head injuries, one fatal. TAIC recommendations on importance of comprehensive practical training in aircraft type, benefits of wearing helmets.
Aviation TAIC reports on tandem skydive accident
After a double parachute malfunction, a skydive pair crash-landed into Lake Wakatipu near Queenstown. The tandem rider submerged and was never found after lifejacket didn’t properly inflate. Parachutists need to practice water landings. TAIC recommends changes to aviation rules and incident reporting.
New chief executive for TAIC
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has appointed Martin Sawyers as its new Chief Executive.
Rail New inquiry into rail accident at level crossing near Marton
TAIC inquiring into collision involving a train and a light truck at a level crossing on Saunders Rd near Marton, at around 1530 on Thursday 13 May. 1 person travelling in the truck died. TAIC investigation team is on its way and will be on site in the morning
Rail TAIC inquiring into rail accident on Aratere ferry
At Wellington Port, a worker was struck by moving wagon, requiring hospital treatment
Marine TAIC investigating jet boat accident on Shotover River
TAIC has opened an inquiry into the jet boat accident on the Shotover River near Queenstown. Injuries to some persons on board, no fatalities reported. The boat is now in a secure location. TAIC investigators arrived on site 22 March, interviewing witnesses, inspecting boat.
Marine TAIC reports on capsize of water taxi
Worse-than-expected sea conditions caused capsize of a perceived very safe ‘pontoon’ design water taxi. Skipper rescued all six passengers trapped inside, all survived. Lessons for passenger boat sector: know vessel stability as well as buoyancy; prioritise safety over commercial expectations; manage risks; ensure the right safety equipment is available; actively lead safety on-board.
Marine New inquiry: Fire on board cargo ship Kota Bahagia
TAIC is investigating the causes and circumstances of a fire on board a cargo vessel in the Port of Napier. Reportedly, the fire originated in one of the holds of the Kota Bahagia while it was berthed at the wharf. All crew have been accounted for.