Six months into 2019, the U.S. helicopter industry has experienced 15 fatal accidents — a number that places the industry on track to record 30 to 35 fatal accidents before the year ends, the U.S. Helicopter Safety Team (USHST) says.
In a statement released Wednesday, USHST said this year’s 15 fatal accidents have resulted in 27 fatalities.
“This is on track to match 2013, when 30 fatal accidents occurred,” USHST said. “However, since July is usually a month with a high number of accidents, the industry also is at risk to reach the total from 2008, when there were 35 fatal helicopter accidents.”
To avoid what USHST called an “unwelcome record,” the organization called on pilots, flight instructors and others in the industry to focus on key accident-prevention actions, including carrying enough fuel not only for the planned flight but also for unexpected diversions and delays.
Other recommended actions called for conducting a…
