Robinson R44 Ii crash near Waikaia, New Zealand

On January 23, 2015, a Robinson R44 II experienced a severe in-flight vibration, after which the pilot successfully landed the helicopter. A subsequent inspection found a crack on one of the main rotor blades. This incident is being investigated by the New Zealand Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) and the NTSB is participating as the United States Accredited Representative to the New Zealand TAIC as the State of Design and State of Manufacture of the helicopter. For additional information, contact the New Zealand TAIC at: Transport Accident Investigation Commission Level 16 AXA Centre 80 The Terrace P.O. Box 10323 The Terrace Wellington 6143 New Zealand Tel.: (64) 4-473-0199 E-mail: inquiries@taic.org.nz Fax: (64) 4-499-1510 Website: http://www.taic.org.nz