Crash cause may be months away

An investigation continues into what caused this chopper to crash and burn.

Almost two months on, an investigation into a Rotorua helicopter crash is still ongoing

The Guimbal Cabri G2 helicopter crash landed on Hawthornden Drive in Tikitere on April 15 and burst into flames.

A Transport Accident Investigation Commission spokesman said yesterday the commission was still in the evidence-gathering stage of the inquiry.

"Formal inquiries go through various stages: evidence gathering, analysis, internal assessment, board consideration, a draft report then final report. The process can take 18 months or even longer depending on the complexity of issues under consideration and/or new information that may come to hand as the inquiry progresses."

He said the commission's work included getting information from the helicopter manufacturer and the engine supplier in the United States.

The spokesman said there were no immediate safety issues and no limitations had been placed on either the pilot or the operators.