Evidence outlined in a coroner's report into a plane crash that killed a woman and her daughter show the 81-year-old pilot had falsified a medical report and failed to disclose a blood pressure problem.
Blenheim pilot Neville Haig McDonald, aged 81, died with Heather Anne Williams, 48, and her daughter Hayley Nicole Williams, 23, when his Piper Cherokee Archer crashed near Taumarunui on May 11, 1999.
The report on the fatal crash by Taumarunui coroner Tim Scott found that Mr McDonald had dealt with two doctors in seeking renewal of his licence - being failed in the first case and dealing with the second doctor purely by telephone and fax.
He had falsified the first medical report and had failed to declare past medication for blood pressure problems.
After the crash it was revealed he had taken a large dose of quinine for leg cramps, which Mr Scott said could have caused him to become disoriented during the flight.
In his report, Mr Scott described Mr McDonald as a proud and stubborn man.
"He took pride in living the life of a much younger man and this included his flying activities. However, the time had been reached when he should have acknowledged that time was no longer on his side. Mr McDonald did not appear to be able or willing to do this."
CAA director Kevin Ward said yesterday the coroner's report would be considered during a review of pilot licensing and medical laws.
- BAY OF PLENTY TIMES
Pilot hid health problems before crash
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