Improving with Lessons Learned
The root cause of aircraft and helicopter accidents is increasingly linked to human factors, highlighting the need for in-depth analysis to fully understand these causes and effectively communicate the findings. With iwiation's immersive technology, lessons learned can be conveyed to pilots through a "déjà vu" effect, allowing them to experience and reflect on past incidents. This innovative approach not only enhances aviation safety but also helps prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.
Head Movement During Approach
A tragic mid-air helicopter collision highlighted a critical often overlooked aspect of pilot situational awareness: head movement during approach. Investigations revealed that one of the helicopters involved had another aircraft positioned in a blind spot, obscured by the cockpit structure. The pilot’s field of view, although generally sufficient, was limited by the airframe.
In the accompanying video below at 6:30, a visibility study illustrates how the situation occoured and the other helicopter remained hidden. A small essential pilots motion can dramatically change the visible area, revealing what was previously blocked by structural elements.
This accident reinforces the importance of active communication, as one of the com devices had technical issues and the importance of active visual scanning techniques, particularly during phases of flight with high traffic density or complex operations like formation flying, approaches, or confined area landings. Pilots must be trained and reminded to move their heads deliberately, not just scan with their eyes. A simple shift in perspective can uncover potential hazards otherwise hidden in blind spots.
In the accompanying video below at 6:30, a visibility study illustrates how the situation occoured and the other helicopter remained hidden. A small essential pilots motion can dramatically change the visible area, revealing what was previously blocked by structural elements.
This accident reinforces the importance of active communication, as one of the com devices had technical issues and the importance of active visual scanning techniques, particularly during phases of flight with high traffic density or complex operations like formation flying, approaches, or confined area landings. Pilots must be trained and reminded to move their heads deliberately, not just scan with their eyes. A simple shift in perspective can uncover potential hazards otherwise hidden in blind spots.
Helicopter Wake Turbulence
One critical lesson learned from a helicopter accident is the behavior of a helicopter’s vortex, which can be influenced and moved by wind. Helicopter vortices are powerful, turbulent air currents that are created by the rotor blades during flight. While these vortices are typically most dangerous immediately after the helicopter has landed or taken off, they can persist for some time and can be displaced by wind.
This movement of vortex air can pose a significant hazard to other aircraft or personnel in the vicinity, particularly if the wind carries the vortex to unexpected areas. For example, a helicopter landing in one area might create a vortex that drifts into the path of another aircraft or paraglider, causing instability or a loss of control.
The key takeaway is the importance of understanding and accounting for the potential movement of these vortices when planning landing or takeoff procedures, as well as maintaining awareness of wind conditions. Ensuring proper spacing and maintaining awareness of vortex movement in wind-prone areas can prevent accidents and enhance safety, particularly in busy or confined environments such as helipads or small airfields.
This movement of vortex air can pose a significant hazard to other aircraft or personnel in the vicinity, particularly if the wind carries the vortex to unexpected areas. For example, a helicopter landing in one area might create a vortex that drifts into the path of another aircraft or paraglider, causing instability or a loss of control.
The key takeaway is the importance of understanding and accounting for the potential movement of these vortices when planning landing or takeoff procedures, as well as maintaining awareness of wind conditions. Ensuring proper spacing and maintaining awareness of vortex movement in wind-prone areas can prevent accidents and enhance safety, particularly in busy or confined environments such as helipads or small airfields.
|
|
Main Rotor Strike
In an accident, the helicopter was hovering close to a mountain while attempting to onboard an injured person. During the rescue maneuver, the helicopter’s main rotor struck the terrain, causing significant damage. Shortly after the strike, the pilot successfully landed the damaged helicopter.
Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT)
Controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) is one of the most common root causes of both helicopter and aircraft accidents. In this particular case, the helicopter was flying above a lake in very low altitude under unique weather conditions. The water’s surface was exceptionally flat, creating a strong mirror effect.
Push to Talk - Podcast
In this podcast, Push to Talk, Bruce Webb invites a range of experienced aviation safety experts to engage in insightful discussions on critical aviation safety topics. Each episode features dynamic conversations, where industry professionals share their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives, aiming to enhance safety practices and raise awareness in the aviation community.
|
|
