An experienced instructor at Wanaka Helicopters, Mr Stott (31) died with commercial pilot licence trainee Marcus Hoogvliet last week, when their chopper crashed near Mt Aspiring on a return flight from Haast.
There was standing room only at Mr Stott's funeral in the Hope and Sons chapel yesterday as well-wishers paid their respects to the popular pilot. A spokeswoman from Hope and Sons funeral directors estimated 600 people had attended.
Mr Stott was raised in Dunedin and attended Kings High School, before he studied at the Dunedin College of Education to become a teacher.
He eventually shifted to Queenstown and then trained as a pilot at Wanaka Helicopters before gaining full-time employment there in 2005.
Passionate about aviation, Mr Stott was also a keen sportsman who developed a flair for photography. Eulogies from family, friends, and his colleagues paid tribute to his determination, hunger for success, gentle nature, and humility.
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission is investigating the crash. A final report is expected to take up to 12 months.
