FODCOM 11/04
Issued: 26 May 2004
Recommends Operators implement procedures to require all crew members wear protective flying helmets when conducting underslung load operations.
WEARING OF PROTECTIVE HELMETS BY CREW MEMBERS ENGAGED IN UNDERSLUNG LOAD OPERATIONS
1.1 History
1.1.1 In the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) report following the investigation into a recent accident involving the carriage of underslung loads by a UK registered helicopter, the safety benefit of flight crew wearing protective flying helmets was highlighted.
1.1.2 The CAA, in consultation with the British Helicopter Advisory Board, agrees that the wearing of these protective flying helmets by flight crew members would provide them with an additional level of safety and protection, but feels that this should be applicable to all crew members carried in the aircraft during
underslung load operations.
1.2 Recommendation
1.2.1 Operators are recommended to implement procedures to require that all crew members wear protective flying helmets when conducting underslung load operations.