Fly-By-Wire accident investigation to continue

Monday 19 November 2001

The Occupational Health and Safety Service (OSH) continued its investigation into the Fly-By-Wire accident in Queenstown over the weekend.

A 29-year Old Swedish tourist was seriously injured when her "plane" crashed into the safety rails on Fly-By-Wire building.

"The task is a complex one, with no ready solution to the cause of the accident being identified," said John Pannett, Southland Service Manager OSH.

"It is likely that the work will continue for a matter of weeks rather than days before the investigations are completed.

"Fly-By-Wire, Queenstown will not re-open for business until the results of the investigations are known.

"It is too early to say if prosecution by OSH will result, as this will depend on the findings of the investigation, however legal action cannot be ruled out.

"It is important for the victim, for the company, and for the adventure tourism industry as a whole, that the reasons for the accident are discovered.

"It is the perceived risk of danger that makes people undertake adventure tourist activities. The actual risk of harm must, however, be minimised and companies engaged in the industry must have appropriate measures in place to ensure that all practicable steps are taken to keep people safe."