The Transport Accident Investigation Commission says a pilot's use of cannabis was a significant factor in last year's ballooning tragedy in Carterton. 11 people died in the accident, which the Commission says was caused by errors of judgement by pilot Lance Hopping, 53.
In its final report on the accident, the commission is calling for significant reform of alcohol and drug regulation in the transport industry. The commission considers it highly likely on the evidence that he smoked cannabis on the morning of the flight. It says allowing the balloon to descend to below the level of powerlines and remain at a low level was an unsafe manouevre.