Family’s tribute to fallen pilot
The family of a helicopter pilot killed in a crash near Reefton say he was a ‘‘West Coaster through and through’’.
Noel Edward Wilson, known as Grumbles, died when his Robinson helicopter crashed near the top of a hill just on the edge of bush about 9 kilometres northeast of Reefton on Monday.
His sister, Carol Wilson, said the 52-year-old’s death had sent ripples through the small community of Reefton.
‘‘[He was] a West Coaster through and through,’’ she said.
‘‘He grew up with a love of flying and outdoor life and followed his childhood dream of being a pilot. He flew everything from microlights, gyrocopters and fixedwing to helicopters. ‘‘He expanded this passion by teaching others how to fly. Noel was an experienced pilot and took every opportunity to be in the sky.’’
Wilson is survived by his son Travis, partner Lynda van Barneveld, parents Noel and Doreen, sisters Suzanne and Carol, and nephews Ky, Raine, Cobi and Tarn. ‘‘The family would like to pass on their thanks to family and friends for their support during this time,’’ she said.
His funeral will be held in Reefton today.
A Rescue Coordination Centre spokeswoman said it received a distress beacon at 6.45pm on Monday. Searchers found Wilson, the sole occupant, dead when they arrived.
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) has opened an inquiry into the circumstances of the crash. A spokesman said two investigators were still at the crash site collecting evidence yesterday, but the wreckage was lifted by helicopter from the crash site late Thursday.
It was too early to say what caused the crash.
The crash is one of four involving Robinson helicopters that are under investigation by the commission. There have been 14 crashes, killing 18 people, involving Robinson helicopters since 1996.
The TAIC put Robinson helicopters on its watchlist in October after concerns about the number of Robinson crashes involving ‘‘mast bumping’’. It was also concerned about the risks of flying Robinson helicopters in mountainous terrain and difficult weather conditions.
Mast bumping refers to contact between an inner part of a main rotor blade and the main rotor drive shaft. Mast bumping usually results in the helicopter breaking up in flight, which is fatal for those on board.
The TAIC recommended all pilots receive proper training in the causes, dangers, and prevention of mast bumping.
There are about 300 Robinsons registered in New Zealand.