NZ Soldier injured in Afghan chopper crash

[flyjoe180]

NZ soldier injured in Afghanistan
6:51PM Thursday January 24, 2008

A New Zealand serviceman has been injured in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan and is being brought home to recover.

The crash happened on January 16 and the serviceman was evacuated to Bagram Air Base for immediate treatment. He underwent a minor surgical procedure, the Defence Force said today.

Eight people were on board the USAID Bell 212 helicopter, including five members of the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team (NZPRT), and it was en-route to a forward patrol base from the main Kiwi base in Bamyan province when the accident happened.

Commander Joint Forces Major General Rhys Jones said the accident highlighted the extraordinary working conditions the NZPRT face in Afghanistan.

"I am grateful that no one was seriously injured and that all personnel are now safe," he said.

The reason for the crash is being investigated.

- NZPA


www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10488651

[rnzaffanatic]

less likley to of happend if it was kiwi aircrew on a kiwi chopper..

anyone know wats going on with that armour/vehicle situation?

[14liney]

less likley to of happend if it was kiwi aircrew on a kiwi chopper.. ;)quote]

The aircraft was a Bell 212 operated by Tasman Helicopters, a Canadian company and was caught in a down flowing airmass from which the pilot was unable to escape. The crash site was at an altitude of 10,600ft and the wreckage won't be recovered as the area is deemed to be too dangerous for a salvage operation. The crew were highly trained and experienced and were caught in a situation that was outside their control.

[30sqnatc]

rnzaffanatic said:

less likley to of happend if it was kiwi aircrew on a kiwi chopper..

Beause a Kiwi UH-1H probably wouldn't have enough puff to get the high

[flyjoe180]

At that sort of altitude most helicopters must really be operating at, or close to, their limits. I guess it is a reminder that the enemy is not always human.