Originally Posted by
76fan
"Private" .... that term which (unless the CAA have at last properly addressed the problem) means all safety rules can be ignored. I wonder just how many passengers are aware of the difference between Private and AOC flights.
If we're now getting into the realms of private vs commercial, then maybe some of you who listen to podcasts may find this one on the Sala crash somewhat interesting. It does go on a bit but episodes 5, 7 and 8 are particularly interesting. The podcast is on BBC and is called 'Transfer'
As pilots, we're the professionals behind the controls so we should be the ones making sure everything we do is to the highest possible standard. Do we think lights are necessary to assist in a night departure from a poorly lit site? Then ask for them. You can buy a set of lights which you can put out for orientation. These can easily be picked up by someone nominated on the ground after departure and posted on to the operator for a few quid!! ( I already know one operator who does this) . Or how about places that are expecting helicopters, spend a few pounds and buy some decent lights. We don't know what the cause of this accident was, or if it was well lit, but the wx conditions certainly appeared to make things more difficult for the pilot.