When the boss decides he wants to launch, often they are blind to the implications if anything goes wrong. Serious pressure is exerted on the crew to depart.
The 13 March 2014 fatal accident when a AW139 helicopter crashed on lift off in dense fog at night in Norfolk, UK is a classic case of employer’s pressure.
It was against the better judgement of the crew ( CVR discussion ) prior to engine start, was I suspect ‘pressure’ from the owner who came on board later than planned to return to Northern Ireland.
A very wealthy man, who invariably was use to getting his own way, oblivious to the potential dangers of the conditions.
At the Inquest, the owner’s family put the blame squarely with the crew for going against ‘the rules‘.
Knowing the particular style of the gentleman, it would come as no surprise if he would have sacked the crew on the spot for declining to depart.
The various employment tribunals in Carlisle from ex employees at Corby Castle ( he owned Carlisle Airport at one time ) did indicate a certain
“no nonsense approach” if his wishes weren’t carried out without unquestioning obedience.
Last edited by parkfell; 6th Aug 2020 at 06:48.
Reason: CAX