Safety scares prompt chopper alert

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Safety fears have sparked a product recall for a batch of popular helicopter blades.

The safety directive, issued today, could ground some Bell Long Ranger helicopters.

Oceania Aviation chief engineer Simon Cometti said the Long Ranger was a versatile helicopter used by tour operators and emergency services.

"You name it, it's been used for it. It's a progression from the Bell Jet Ranger which has been very popular for many years."

Cometti said the directive would affect operators who'd already notched up plenty of flying in the Long Ranger.

"If you've exceeded 1400 hours ... you're on the ground."

An unaffected blade's normal lifespan is 3600 hours of flight time. But blades from the bad batch have been deemed unsafe after only 1400 hours.

"The concern is that air pockets in the adhesive used inside the blades could lead to cracking, and failure," CAA director Steve

Douglas said in the directive.

"The CAA has notified all owners of New Zealand-registered Bell 206L helicopters, who must now arrange with their maintenance provider to check the part numbers of their aircraft rotor blades, and their length of time in service, in order to make any required replacements."

Civil Aviation Authority spokewoman Emma Peel said there were eight Long Rangers registered in New Zealand. Each had a different owner.

One year ago, a Bell 206 Long Ranger ZK-ISF, registered to North Shore Helicopters, lost power after an an engine surge.

The chopper then crashed off the coast near Bream Bay in Northland. That pilot had to be winched to safety.

Today's news follows a similar directive issued in Canada yesterday. It is understood similar safety warnings will be published worldwide over the next few days.