The International Helicopter Safety Team (www.IHST.org) has initiated its fourth annual survey of civil helicopter operators located in key regions around the world in order to gain a broader understanding of where safety initiatives are being implemented. A link to the survey form can be found on the IHST web site: http://ihst.org/Default.aspx?tabid=2593

The IHST’s worldwide regional teams have analyzed more than 1,000 helicopter accidents and have concluded that the following seven areas offer the best opportunities to prevent helicopter accidents:

 The implementation of Safety Management Systems (SMS),

 A structured program for initial and recurrent training,

 The implementation of Health & Usage Monitoring Systems (HUMS),

 The implementation of Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) programs,

 Structured programs to fully comply with manufacturers’ recommended Maintenance practices,

 Installation of Wire strike prevention systems,

 Usage of Night Vison systems when warranted.

The 2018-19 IHST survey will look at where these best practices are being followed within specific segments of the helicopter industry and within regions around the world.

Last year’s data showed that the key recommended safety practices were implemented most comprehensively by operators in the sectors of Helicopter Air Ambulance, Law Enforcement and Offshore/Oil operations. The lowest implementation occurred in the Personal/Private segment of the industry and in TV/Radio News gathering. The detailed report for the previous IHST safety initiative survey can be found on the “Repository” page on its web site: http://ihst.org/Default.aspx?tabid=3094&language=en-US