The FAA has revised its rules that govern the operation of helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS), and has invited comment on the changes. According to the FAA notice published on November 14, the changes were made because the FAA determined that “safety in air commerce and the public interest requires additional hazard mitigation for HEMS operations.” Comments must be received by December 15.
The revisions specify that HEMS pilots must determine a minimum safe cruise altitude during pre-flight planning by identifying and documenting obstructions and terrain along the planned flight path. HEMS pilots’ pre-flight planning must also determine the minimum ceiling and visibility required to conduct the flight. The revised rules allow HEMS operations under IFR at landing areas without weather reporting only if an approved weather reporting source is located within 15 nautical miles of the landing area, or if an area forecast is available.
The NTSB has also expressed concern about the safety of HEMS opereations, and recently announced plans for a public hearing on the issue to take place February 3-5, 2009 at its Washington headquarters. The board said the hearing is aimed at educating the board on the operational challenges of EMS services and helping members figure out how to stem the rising tide of accidents. The proceedings will be webcast live via the NTSB website.
“We have seen an alarming rise in the numbers of EMS accidents and the Safety Board believes some of these accidents could have been prevented if our [previous] recommendations were implemented,” said member Robert Sumwalt, who will chair the hearing. “This hearing will be extremely important because it can provide an opportunity to learn more about the industry so that possibly, we can make further recommendations that can prevent these accidents and save lives.”