Air show chairman confident tragic UK events won't repeat here

11 people died in Shoreham in England last weekend after a Hawker Hunter jet performing in an airshow crashed onto the A27. Photo / Getty Images

The chairman of an air show association is confident the tragic events that happened in England recently won't be repeated here.

John Spry, Chair of the New Zealand Air Show Association (NZASA) said New Zealand has an enviable airshow safety record, arguably one of the best in the world.

11 people died in Shoreham in England last weekend after a Hawker Hunter jet performing in an airshow crashed onto the A27 after it failed to pull out of a loop manoeuvre.

While acknowledging the tragic loss of life at the airshow, Mr Spry said that we have robust rules in place to help prevent something like Shoreham happening in New Zealand.

"Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the families, friends and colleagues of those affected by the tragic event. While the United Kingdom Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) is conducting a thorough investigation it is not appropriate to speculate on the cause or causes of the accident at this stage." Mr Spry said.

NZASA is comprised of the principals and organisers of most of the major New Zealand airshows.

It was formed in 2012 to assist airshow organisers by sharing experience and information and by offering advice and promoting solutions to enhance the safety and satisfaction of participants and spectators at New Zealand aviation events.

NZASA is a member of the International Council of Airshows.

The New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority (NZCAA) has established specific rules, operational procedures and advisory material for the conduct of airshows, in particular for the separation of display aircraft from spectator areas and the general public.

"We endorse and promote the NZCAA operational safety regime. All New Zealand Air Show Association accredited events comply with these rules," he said.

Mr Spry said 'NZASA and NZCAA will continue to monitor the ongoing investigation of this accident and other international investigations to ensure that New Zealand operational and administrative procedures remain best practise.

If the investigation suggests changes which are relevant to New Zealand policies and guidance the NZASA will work closely with its members and the CAA to integrate them into our existing safety regime.

'In the meantime, our thoughts, prayers and best wishes remain with those involved in this tragic accident' he said.