NTSB Recommends Air Methods Revise Procedures for Nonroutine Operational Decisions

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released a safety recommendation, designated as A-13-015 and identified by NTSB number CEN11FA599, directed at Air Methods Corporation. This recommendation addresses operational protocols regarding nonroutine decisions made during flight operations. Specifically, the NTSB advises that company procedures be revised to ensure pilots are no longer solely responsible for these critical choices. Instead, pilots must consult with the Air Methods Operational Control Center to obtain approval before accepting or continuing a mission when faced with elevated risk situations. The recommendation highlights specific scenarios where this consultation is required, including fuel-related issues and unplanned deviations from the original flight plan. This measure aims to enhance safety by introducing an additional layer of oversight during complex operational challenges.