Coroner backed over balloon inquest

wta100112ncmedia04.jpg Television camera crews and print media photographers and reporters stand watch near the Somerset Rd scene of the fatal balloon crash that killed all 11 people aboard.

The Civil Aviation Authority supports the coroner's decision to adjourn the Carterton balloon accident inquest, which was scheduled to conclude on Friday.

The CAA was prepared to give evidence at the inquest on Friday but understands the Coroner adjourned proceedings so that he could call for evidence to be given by unrelated parties.

Director of Civil Aviation Graeme Harris says it is important that the process be given full and proper consideration because this will enable the best outcome for all parties.

"We understand that it is a very difficult time for the families of those who lost their lives in this tragic accident and we are committed to participating fully in the process in an effort to prevent the re-occurrence of such a tragedy.

"We also acknowledge it is important that the coroner take the time required to fully investigate the causes and circumstances of the accident."

He says the CAA is committed to doing all within its power to minimise the risk of drug and alcohol use in adventure aviation. The issue has been raised as a concern during the inquest and was also the subject of a recommendation in the Transport Accident Investigation Commissions report on the accident.

"The regulatory system for the safety oversight of commercial balloon operations has changed considerably since the time of the accident. Several measures which address the families concerns are already in place," he said.

"Aviation safety is our top priority and the CAA is fully supportive of the recommendations made by the Transport Accident Investigation Commission in its report on the accident.

"In particular, we welcome the work currently underway to consider the commissions recommendation to introduce a legislative and a regulatory framework to reduce the risk of alcohol and drug use across the transport sector."

The CAA would not comment further until the conclusion of the inquest.