An FAA review of helicopter incidents and accidents over the past five years has identified several accidents in which loss of control (LOC) was encountered immediately after liftoff while light on the skids/gear, or from other issues caused by missed checklist items. With those operational issues in mind, the agency recently issued a safety alert to helicopter operators about not only the use of checklists but also as a reminder to perform stabilized hover checks prior to takeoff.
FAA Issues Safety Alert for Helicopter Preflight Operations
Key Takeaways:
- The FAA identified a pattern of helicopter loss of control (LOC) incidents and accidents, often occurring immediately after liftoff or due to missed checklist items.
- As a result, the FAA issued a safety alert to helicopter operators, emphasizing the critical importance of using checklists and performing stabilized hover checks before takeoff.
- Industry experts and accident investigations confirm that pre-takeoff hover checks are vital for helicopters to ensure all systems are functioning correctly, preventing incidents like one where an engine left in "idle" led to a crash.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
