U.S. Helicopter Safety Team Warns About the Next “Bump in the Road” for Fatal Accidents

As the temperature moves downward during Oct. and Nov. in most of the U.S., the number of fatal helicopter accidents usually moves upward according to the United States Helicopter Safety Team.

In 2017 and 2018, during these two autumn months, the U.S. helicopter industry experienced 13 fatal accidents, the highest total for a consecutive two-month period during those years.

In light of this data, the USHST is asking all helicopter pilots, mechanics, operators and instructors to be especially vigilant during those upcoming 61 days. The data shows that many of the 13 fatal accidents during October and November involved visibility issues, such as controlled flight into terrain or striking an object  or wire while flying at a low level. The spike in fatal accidents could stem from the autumn to winter changeable weather and unanticipated visibility problems that occur during Oct. and Nov.

Over the past three decades, the number of fatal helicopter accidents has been decreasing, but bumps in the road still occur month to month.  If we are more aware of them, we can prevent them, and we can save lives.