The section from the AAIB report that shouts out (to me) is:
"While helicopters have the ability to slow down, turn around or ‘land out’, there seems to be reluctance for pilots to make the decision in a timely manner to do either of these. A pilot’s ability to make a suitable decision to avoid DVE may decrease as the situation deteriorates and result in the helicopter unintentionally entering IMC."
As the consequence of inavertant IMC in a light, unstabalised VFR helicopter (such as I fly) is most likely death, this section of the AAIB report leads me to a simple checklist:
1. Set yourself minimum speed / clearance rules appropriate to your level of experience / aircraft
2. Do not bend these rules
3. Stay on the ground, reverse course, or land before you get to the limit of your rule
Last edited by John R81; 31st May 2012 at 11:19.