The question about that absent data lies with the Operator as the system has the ability for User additions to the Database. The data on Blackrock should have been there no doubt.....but there are limitations to any system when it comes to the areas the systems memory will be programmed to cover. In all likelihood the database area of coverage did not anticipate low level flight operations near Blackrock such as the ICG performs.
The Operator could have ensured all potential landing sites or areas of operation were in fact properly contained in the database.
Had the Operator surveyed,checked, and documented formal IMC Point-in-Space Approaches to every known location IMC Approaches would be conducted....and incorporated the advanced capabilities of the S-92 SAR Avionics System then this particular tragedy would have been avoided.
The aircraft can safely terminate at a hover over a pre-determined point without the Crew seeing the surface and both track, height, and angle of approach be safely controlled by the aircraft systems.
Had that been done....the Crew would have been assured of terrain clearance and enjoyed much greater Situational Awareness and not been down at 200 feet at Ten Miles from the Landing Point. Had the Crew had NVG's.....it is very likely the Flight Crew could have seen the Light or Light House and Blackrock itself and afford them the ability to avoid the collision with terrain.
One Man's Opinion here.....this Crew were handed a Time Bomb by Management, Training, and Safety. The Operator failed to change from old ways and failed to embrace new technology that requires a change of Mindset and Safety Culture.
If there is any good that can come from the loss of four very experienced, professional, and dedicated people who lived to save others.....hopefully this tragedy shall result in a serious over haul of the SAR Operation and its Safety Standards. We owe that to those lost while helping others!
Originally Posted by
glenbrook