I guess it did sound a bit harsh, but thats just my nature. After thirty some years of eatin dirt at speed Im used to takin hits ...
Hope nobody is offended.
The thread just seemed a bit petty over some poor dude who sounds like he will be getting life in prison for making a normal approach to landing. OK, he flew over some houses. And yes he could have had an engine failure, as many Helicopters can daily. Much of my Helicopter flying either Military or Law Enforcement required flying over places that should an engine have failed, I would have been toast. Over the past few years of tour work, nothing has changed. I believe it goes with the territory. I think I would be a bit upset to have an entire SWAT team come after me for making a decision on which way to land.
And Im sure some of the above are correct in that things are a bit more restrictive in the UK. Further that the licensing procedures are very extensive. I guess thats means if we meet in the air over Africa, watch out, I only have an FAA license.
Relax guys, this is just fun........