How Safe Is Helicopter Travel? A Comprehensive Look at Helicopter Safety

High-profile helicopter accidents often spark concerns about the safety of helicopter travel. Recent tragedies, such as the 2020 crash that claimed the life of basketball legend Kobe Bryant and a more recent incident earlier this year involving six fatalities, have reignited debates about the safety of helicopters.

In response to these concerns, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently enacted a significant safety overhaul. On May 16, President Biden signed a comprehensive FAA reauthorization bill into law, which includes provisions for enhanced oversight of helicopter operations and flight-seeing tours. This legislation mandates upgrades to safety equipment and improved data monitoring to better protect passengers.

The most recent helicopter crash, which involved prominent figures including Herbert Ogiwe, CEO of a leading Nigerian bank, and other high-profile individuals, highlighted the ongoing risks associated with helicopter travel. The accident, which involved an Airbus EC 130 operated by Orbic Air, has drawn global attention and underscores the need for continued vigilance in helicopter safety.

Helicopter Safety Record and Recent Incidents

Despite the sensational nature of helicopter accidents, experts assert that helicopter travel is generally safe. John Goglia, an aviation consultant and former member of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), notes that while accidents are major news events, the overall safety record of helicopters is relatively good, especially compared to small private planes.

The investigation into the Mojave crash earlier this year, where limited visibility and adverse weather conditions played a role, is still ongoing. The absence of voice and data recorders in both this and the Bryant crash complicates the analysis. Similarities between these incidents, including foul weather and risky pilot decisions, emphasize the need for improved safety protocols.

Enhancements in Helicopter Safety

While current helicopter travel is relatively safe, there is always room for improvement. Recent calls for increased federal oversight have been driven by a series of flight-seeing accidents. For example, a 2018 crash in New York City and a 2019 incident in Hawaii, which resulted in seven deaths, highlighted significant safety concerns. These accidents prompted legislative efforts to enhance air tour safety, particularly in high-risk areas like Hawaii, which has the highest number of air tour fatalities in the U.S.

Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) has championed safety reforms, emphasizing that better pilot training and stringent regulations are crucial. Goglia points out that pilot error, often driven by self-imposed pressure or inadequate training, contributes to many accidents. The NTSB’s findings suggest that improving pilot training and adherence to safety cues are essential for reducing risks.

Statistical Insights into Helicopter Safety

Statistics provide a reassuring perspective on helicopter safety. According to the U.S. Helicopter Safety Team, the fatal accident rate for helicopters in the U.S. over the past five years stands at 0.73 per 100,000 flight hours. This compares favorably to the fatal accident rate for general aviation, which was 1.049 per 100,000 flight hours in 2020.

Assessing Safety When Booking a Helicopter Flight

For those considering helicopter travel, safety should be a priority. Look for operators who are transparent about their safety standards and certifications. Companies like Blue Hawaiian Helicopters prominently display their commitment to exceeding FAA regulations. When evaluating an operator, inquire about the helicopter’s service history, the pilot’s experience, and recent safety audits.

While concerns about helicopter safety are valid, the industry’s overall record and recent safety advancements offer a reassuring outlook. As helicopter travel continues to evolve, ongoing improvements and stricter regulations aim to enhance safety and protect passengers in the skies.

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