Man who died in light plane crash in Waitaki 'enormously skilled' pilot

Monday, 25 October 2021

The man killed in a light plane crash in a remote area of Waitaki was an internationally respected glider pilot.

Omarama Airfield chairman Clive Geddes confirmed on Monday afternoon the pilot had flown out of Omarama Airfield on a solo flight on Monday morning.

'He was a respected glider pilot around the world,' Geddes said.

'He was enormously skilled, and very generous with his time. He will be missed.'

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has confirmed it has opened a safety investigation into the fatal crash involving ‘’a pilot and a Baby Great Lakes single seat aircraft’’.

An investigator is expected to arrive at the crash site on Tuesday afternoon, and has arranged for the scene to be secured.

“CAA has already been contacted by a witness to the crash,’’ a spokesperson said.

“We are appealing to members of the public.

“If anyone else in the area saw or heard anything that may be of help, could they please reach out to CAA and send an email to comms@caa.govt.nz and an investigator will get back to you.”

The death was confirmed by police on Monday afternoon.

“The sole occupant of the plane was found deceased at the scene,’' a release says.

“Police are making enquiries in relation to the death on behalf of the Coroner.’’

Emergency services were called to the crash near Twizel-Omarama Rd, near Lake Ōhau, at 10.46am on Monday, Fire and Emergency NZ shift manager Darryl Ball said.

Waitaki District mayor Gary Kircher told Stuff the death was a “tragedy’’.

‘’Our condolences are with the family and friends of the deceased person,’’ he said.

Aviation Adventures at Pukaki Airport Chris Rudge said he had also heard the crash was fatal.

‘’It’s been a beautiful day,’’ Rudge said.

‘’Clear and without much wind, so weather would have not been a factor.’’

Fire crews from Timaru and Omarama had attended the crash, Ball said.