Just a few comments as the company is based at my local airport. This isn't exactly a "mom and pop" operation. They have about 35 employees with multiple jet aircraft and the accident B206 and an Agusta 109.
I suspect that the 109 may not be flying as the mishap pilot had a mishap taxiing at night on his ramp and put the tail rotor into some bushes. He neglected to report the mishap to the FAA and NTSB but they found out anyway.
Hoke Smith (68) was a very experienced pilot.
SK Jets has had a contract with Mayo Clinic in JAX to support their transplant program for a few years. This includes not only their helicopters but also their LearJets for more distant flights. As what was stated previously, this is not an EMS or HEMS operation, but a charter operation contracted to fly the transplant teams and organs.
The weather Jacksonville weather was 700 overcast but I don't know what the vis. was.
To make this tragic accident worse a needy patient did not receive the heart.
Last edited by Check 6; 29th Dec 2011 at 17:29.