FlyInn Confirms Plane Crash in Bryant Range
The Wānaka-based operator says a Cessna 172P Skyhawk crashed near Nelson, killing two people.
By Petra Murphy ·
FlyInn, a Wānaka-based company that offers self-fly holidays, confirmed on Thursday that one of its aircraft was involved in a fatal crash near Nelson. The company identified the plane as a Cessna 172P Skyhawk with the registration ZK-BFQ. The aircraft was destroyed in the incident, and two occupants died.
The flight departed Nelson Airport at 9:10 a.m. on Tuesday. Rescue teams later located the wreckage in a remote section of the Bryant Range, south of Castor Peak. By Thursday, police were still working alongside the Civil Aviation Authority to recover the bodies and examine the crash site. While the victims have not been publicly identified, reports indicate one was a New Zealand pilot and the other was a foreign national.
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission opened an inquiry into the event. Chief investigator Louise Cook stated that two investigators have been appointed to determine the cause and identify potential safety improvements. Cook explained that the first priority is securing evidence that might change or disappear, such as the condition of the wreckage, electronic records, and witness recollections.
Investigators are collecting flight-tracking data, cockpit recordings, and radio communications. They are also reviewing weather conditions, the plane's maintenance history, and details about the pilot and the planned route. Cook noted that access to the site and the duration of work there depend on terrain, weather, and safety conditions.
FlyInn issued a statement expressing its condolences. “It is with an incredibly heavy heart we wish to advise one of our aircraft was involved in an accident in an area of New Zealand's South Island,” the company said. The message emphasized that the company's thoughts were with the families and loved ones of those affected.
The operator added that it is focused on supporting police and rescue services in the ongoing operation. FlyInn said it will provide further updates when possible. The company also stated that it will contact customers with upcoming bookings as soon as it is able to do so.
The inquiry aims to gather all relevant information to understand what happened and why. Investigators continue to work at the scene while managing the logistical challenges of the remote location. The process involves a detailed review of both physical and digital records associated with the flight.
