What happened
On 17 February 2002, at approximately 22:25 UTC, a Eurocopter EC135T1, registration G-SPAU, was involved in an accident near Muirkirk, East Ayrshire, Scotland. The incident occurred during night operations in a region characterized by hilly terrain.
The investigation
The AAIB field investigation into the occurrence led to the identification of specific areas within police helicopter operations that required regulatory oversight. The investigation focused on the equipment and training standards applicable to night flying in mountainous or poorly lit environments.
Findings
The investigation highlighted the potential benefits of enhanced visual technology and the necessity for standardized training regarding automated flight systems during night operations.
Safety action
Two safety recommendations have been issued to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA):
- Recommendation 2003-49: The CAA is advised to ensure that Police Air Operators Certificate (AOC) holders evaluate the safety advantages of using helmet-mounted night vision goggles (NVGs). This review should specifically consider the implementation of NVGs for night-time police helicopter missions in areas with limited lighting, such as mountainous or hilly landscapes.
- Recommendation 2003-50: The CAA should conduct a review of the Police Air Operators Manual (PAOM). The objective is to ensure that operator-led training for autopilot systems is integrated into both initial and recurrent line training, and that the PAOM Part II provides clear instructions for pilots regarding autopilot use during standard flight operations.