CHICAGO SUBURB: 4 killed in helicopter crash

The NTSB recommended in January 2006 that federal regulators require the systems on the nation's 750 medevac helicopters. The NTSB said terrain warning systems likely would have prevented 17 of 55 accidents it studied.

Legislation sponsored by Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., also would require the systems.

The Federal Aviation Administration, which oversees air ambulance firms, believes the devices have promise but require further study, said John Allen, deputy director of the FAA's Flight Standards Service.

"These processes, undeniably, go a little slow for some folks, especially the NTSB," Allen said. "But when we go to a new technology, we have to make sure there isn't some unforeseen hazard. We'd hate to make a rule that would contribute to future accidents."

The Association of Air Medical Services, an air ambulance trade group, informally urges members to use terrain avoidance systems, but would prefer not to see a requirement, said Christopher Eastlee, the group's government relations manager.

Some companies are not waiting for a government mandate. Air Methods, the largest air ambulance firm in the nation, decided two years ago to equip its fleet of about 340 helicopters.

"I think it's critical for our company to be very proactive about safety," said Craig Yale, the firm's vice president of corporate development.

In a demonstration flight last week for USA TODAY, Lajeunesse flew near New York City to show how the Honeywell system reacts to hazards.

Flying toward the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, he pointed the helicopter toward one of two 693-feet-high support towers. The towers were clearly visible on the cockpit display when the helicopter was still miles away.

When the on-board computer estimated the helicopter was about 30 seconds from hitting the tower, the system issued an alert: "Warning, obstacle! Warning, obstacle!" Lajeunesse turned away.

"I've used (the device) for almost 10 years on both airplanes and helicopters and I would not want to fly an aircraft without it," he said.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2008-10-16-crashwarning_N.htm
Fonte: Flight Safety Information 17/10/2008.