ANN has received a note from CASA (The Civil Aviation Safety Authority) that bears reading by pilots all over the world. Pilots flying at low levels have been given a fresh warning to watch out for powerlines. This follows a number of recent accidents where aircraft have struck powerlines while engaged in aerial agriculture operations.

Late last year a Bell 206 helicopter struck powerlines during a locust spraying operation in NSW, killing the pilot and one of two passengers. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority says around 25 per cent of all low flying accidents involve a collision with wires.

In 2004, there was a total of seven wire strike accidents involving helicopters across Australia.

CASA is telling pilots there are simple steps that can be taken during all low level flying to minimise the risk of hitting powerlines. The advice is published in the latest edition of CASA’s flagship safety publication, Flight Safety Australia magazine.

Pilots are told flying at low levels should be planned in simple blocks of information that can be easily remembered and that avoid information overload. Plans should be followed closely unless there is a good reason that does not jeopardise safety. “In about 70 per cent of wire accidents, the pilot already knew about the wire,” the Flight Safety Australia article says.

“Either the pilot forgot about the wire or misjudged it.

“Some pilots repeat, almost as a mantra, ‘watch the wires, watch the wires’, in high-risk areas. It may sound over the top, but it works.

“The bottom line is to do everything you can to make sure you know where the wires are. And that includes using your crew to keep a good look out.

“Every wire should be seen as a potential hazard.”

FMI: http://casa.gov.au