Helicopter accidents - can new rules save lives ?

http://genevalunch.com

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Time Magazine published this article in 2009
(http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1876095,00.html#ixzz1kpOhgMXo)
The article claims that EMS helicopters in the U.S. are not adequately equipped for medical missions and that many of the accidents could have been prevented if the following measures had been implemented:

• Mandatory requirement for a 2 pilot crew ( less cockpit workload )
• Mandatory requirement for IFR certified and IFR current pilots.
• Mandatory requirement for TCAS and GPWS ( Traffic Collision Avoidance System & Ground Proximity   Warning System)
• Cockpit weather data-link ( XM Weather )
• Strict protocols restricting flying in dangerous conditions

Pilots testified that the above measures are not being implemented out of financial considerations and budget constraints.
It appears the FAA needs to urgently address this issue by issuing clear and obligatory directives.

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