Just before the start of HAI’s Heli-Expo, which opens its doors next week in Anaheim, California, the FAA has finalized a rule that aims to improve helicopter safety. The new rule requires helicopter operators to include additional safety equipment, improve communications and procedures and impose additional training requirements for their pilots.
In developing the rule, the FAA analyzed fatal accidents between 1991 and 2010 and the agency claims adherence to the new requirements would have saved as many as 125 lives during that period.
The new rule, which will be implemented within 60 days, applies to Part 135 and Part 91 helicopter operators. Some of the new requirements for Part 135 operators include improved survival equipment for over water flights, higher weather minimums for alternate airports and the inclusion of radar altimeters. In addition, pilots are required to demonstrate the ability to maneuver their helicopters if they accidentally enter IMC and to safely get out of those conditions. Part 91 operators will have stricter weather minimums in Class G airspace.
In addition to the general Part 135 and 91 rules, air ambulance operators have a long list of new requirements regarding pilot training and procedures, and will be required to equip their helicopters with terrain avoidance systems and flight data monitoring systems. Additionally, operators with medical personnel on board will now be required to operate under the stricter Part 135 rules.
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