Helicopter pilot killed in crash named

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The helicopter pilot killed in a crash in North Canterbury today has been named as David Stanley Jones, 48, of Woodend.

Mr Jones was the pilot and sole occupant of a Robinson R22 helicopter, operated by HeliMax, the Woodend-based company he owned.

The crash occurred near the base of Mt Percy, inland from Domett, shortly before 9.30am, Senior Sergeant Malcolm Johnston said.

"Our enquiries indicate that the helicopter had been spraying matagouri at low altitude in a valley on the western side of Mt Percy when the crash occurred.

"It was a high impact crash and the helicopter burst into flames on impact. It is likely the pilot would have been killed instantly."

Mr Jones' body was expected to be removed from the scene later today.

The wreckage of the helicopter would remain at the site pending an investigation by the Civil Aviation Authority.

Mr Jones' family has requested privacy, Mr Johnston said.