The helicopters used this year in the Safety Zone were a Bell UH-1D in SAR configuration provided by CHS and a Cabri provided by LHA.
Thrills with Sling Load Operations A Resounding Success in Rotorcraft Safety
One of the most exhilarating sessions was the Sling Load Operations demo conducted by Michael Behrens, Daniel Simon, and Jakob Uske from Airbus Helicopters, along with Jonathan Hall from EASA. This year, the team of presenters was joined by Brendan Fitzpatrick from Signia Aerospace. This session delved into the risks and critical safety measures of sling-load operations. Live demonstrations using actual aircraft equipment revealed just how quickly things could go wrong — and, more importantly, how to prevent accidents through proper safety protocols.
Safety Briefings
The Safety Zone briefings offered attendees indispensable knowledge in an engaging format. Greg Brown (VAI) presented an overview of VAI’s safety programs, providing insights into the current direction of the industry. Mona Seeberger (HTM Helicopter Travel Munich) presented real-world safety techniques through EASA’s video series about helicopter off-airfield operations helping pilots and operators safely tackle challenges like landing on unprepared surfaces.
Adding to the depth of insights, Mathieu Vandenavenne (Safety for Flight) showcased EASA’s safety video on handling electronic devices in cockpits, while Stefano Burigana (Elifriulia) shared updates on the ESPN-R Safety Management Manual, which serves as a template for helicopter operators adhering to EASA’s regulations.
Attendees also benefited from Jonny Greenall (Balearic Helicopters), who covered strategies for navigating high winds and turbulence; Mike O’Donoghue (U.K. GASCo), who discussed how decision biases could affect flight safety; and Caroline Schiel (Fly High), who captivated the audience with her session titled “RPM = LIFE,” emphasizing the critical importance of rotor RPM management for safe helicopter operations.
Invited speaker Glenn Daley (NYPD Aviation Unit, retired) addressed how to manage distractions in aviation, especially smartphone-related distractions, a well-known substantial accident factor.
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European Rotors 2024’s Rotorcraft Safety Zone brought together professionals and enthusiasts for an immersive, hands-on experience. This year’s event wasn’t just a showcase; it was an invaluable learning experience where attendees walked away with practical knowledge and a renewed commitment to safety in rotorcraft operations. The Rotorcraft Safety Zone delivered excitement, education, and engagement — truly setting a new standard in the industry’s approach to safety.
Also, we give a huge thanks to Frank Liemandt, show director, and Judith Bartkowski, training and conference manager, for making this year’s Rotorcraft Safety Zone come true.
Michel Masson (EASA) provided an update on VAST and ESPN-R activities in the conference’s Educational Program session. John Franklin (EASA), the other foreseen presenter, was excused.
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