Helicopters are vital tools in various industries, from search and rescue to aerial photography and, of course, agricultural applications. However, their low-altitude operation puts them at a higher risk of colliding with power lines and other wires, posing a significant threat to pilots and passengers.
The summer of 2023 serves as a stark reminder of this danger. The National Transportation Safety Board and the FAA reported a concerning rise in helicopter wire strike accidents during that period, with four out of the 15 reported accidents resulting in fatalities.
Understanding the Why: Cognitive Biases at Play
The FAA's research delves into the cognitive factors contributing to wire strikes, identifying several key culprits:
Tunnel vision: Pilots might become fixated on other tasks or obstacles, neglecting to scan for wires.
Misjudgment and complacency: Forgetting about known wires, misjudging their distance, or feeling pressure to complete a job quickly can lead to critical errors.
Taking Control: Safety Measures for Pilots
Fortunately, there are concrete steps pilots can take to mitigate the risk of wire strikes:
Prioritize altitude: Whenever possible, choose a higher flight path, especially when operating in areas with known wires.
Plan meticulously: Before setting off, meticulously review your flight path for any charted wires and potential hazards.
Become an expert on your environment:Familiarize yourself with the terrain, navigational charts, and obstacle heights in your planned flight area. Be extra cautious when repeatedly crossing the same set of wires.
Look beyond the obstacle: While the wires themselves might be challenging to see, look for supporting structures like towers and poles, or environmental cues like cleared lines of vegetation, which can indicate the presence of wires.
Assume the worst: When flying over roads or unfamiliar territory, always assume there are wires present.
Minimize distractions: Maintain focus on your flight path and avoid distractions from radio calls or conversations with passengers.
Utilize extra eyes: If you have passengers on board, ask them to help scan for wires.
Consider additional protection: Explore installing a wire strike protection system, also known as "wire cutters," on your helicopter. While it doesn't prevent strikes entirely, it can cut through wires upon impact, potentially minimizing damage and saving lives.
Additional Resources for Enhanced Safety
For further information and visual aids, pilots can refer to these valuable resources:
Rotorcraft Cable Collision Avoidance (EASA):[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrmzRC29Ua8]
Spotlight on Safety: You Cut It? (HAI): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=el_pslX8HYE
Avoiding Wire Strikes (FAA Tech Center): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqHLfhRhqNg
By prioritizing these safety measures and remaining constantly vigilant, pilots can significantly reduce the risk of wire strikes, ensuring a safe and successful journey every time they take flight. Remember, even the most experienced pilots are susceptible to these accidents. Always prioritize safety and never compromise on your well-being, or the well-being of your passengers, by taking unnecessary risks in the air.
Read original article here: https://faasteam.medium.com/dont-strike-out-34655a6b3800