Operation over/around a city has inherent risk. As a society we accept this risk for the convenience and utility that the capability provides; HEMS/NGS/SAR/CHTR/FIRE/POLAIR etc. The competency of the crews and the design and equipment of the aircraft are evident in the low level of adverse events that occur, even in the eyebrow raising US HEMS incident rate at present. Overall, society benefits from the utility offered. Occasionally, even with evidently well experienced, well trained and well equipped aircraft, operating in these conditions ends badly, as in this case. Adverse weather operation in the low level environment with obstructions (lit or otherwise...) is demanding; workload and weather variation can transpire to make minor deviations critical.
This case highlights the fact that the task of the helicopter pilot at low level is one that is uncompromising. If viewed as a ARMS SIRA event, the potential risk in this case is much higher than has eventuated, and as an industry the operation around metro areas should have additional crew training for reinforcement of risk reduction strategies for the operation. Not suggesting additional regulation, awareness and decision making reinforcement in the management of the operation. Regulation or prohibitions adversely affect the utility that is afforded.
This accident will result in an interesting report, it is obviously a high profile and confronting event. A comparison of accident rates and severities of police/ambulance/fire vehicles in the metro area over a representative period would make for an interesting comparison before the city takes any action to restrict rotary operations. Logically, a limitation of such operations would make the case for closing the city airport, and heathrow for exactly the same rationales. Politics will demand a review being called for by the elected officials, hope they look seriously at the issues.