NTSB Files Recommendations after Texas Offshore Helicopter Accident
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) issued recommendations to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requiring offshore helicopters in the Gulf of Mexico to reevaluate their communication procedures in order to avoid accidents during high traffic periods, such as after a hurricane or other disaster. The recommendations came after a probe into a helicopter crash near Texas in 2005.
On September 6th, 2005, a Sikorsky S-76 helicopter with 8 Rowan Companies oil rig workers on board crashed into the Gulf of Mexico approximately 24 miles southeast of Sabine Pass, Texas. The helicopter had just taken off from a jack rig owned by Rowan Companies, and was on its way to the company's facility in Sabine Pass. There were 2 other passengers on board, as well as a two-member crew. They were all able to safely make their way out of the helicopter before it submerged. Both pilots and 3 of the passengers suffered serious injuries in the accident, while the rest of the passengers suffered minor injuries. Fortunately, all occupants were wearing personal flotation devices, these helped them stay afloat in the waters 
for close to 7.5 hours before help arrived. The investigation found that the accident was caused because of the pilots' slow response when the first engine failed. The board concluded that the slow response was probably due to high stress levels because of the timing of the crash - one week after hurricane Katrina made landfall. The chaotic conditions soon after Katrina hit caused delays in the communication network at Houston Helicopters Inc, the company that operated the helicopter. According to the Board's report, there were several violations at Houston Helicopters Inc. which contributed to the delayed rescue efforts. Post Katrina, other offshore helicopter operators serving drilling companies in the Gulf of Mexico made alternative arrangements, so they could continue supporting helicopter flights. Houston Helicopters Inc., however, failed to make any substitute arrangements. Instead, management at the company recommended that pilots use their own cell phones to transmit important flight information to the control center. The board also found that although Houston Helicopters Inc. had a record of 8 accidents, 3 incidents and at least 18 FAA surveillance violations, there were no follow ups made to check if the company was in compliance with rules regarding alternate methods of flight following procedures.
The offshore helicopter crash near Texas could have ended in tragedy and the passengers and crew members were lucky to be able to survive with only injuries. They were, however, forced to undergo the trauma of waiting for several hours in the cold waters of the Gulf because of Houston Helicopter Inc's negligence.
Maritime Accident Claims
Offshore rig workers are exposed to several risks when they use helicopters to travel from platform to shore as part of their maritime duties. Injuries that occur during such air travel can make a worker eligible for compensation under maritime law. An expert maritime attorney can help workers determine their options for compensation.
If you have been injured in a maritime accident, contact a maritime attorney at Arnold & Itkin LLP for a free evaluation of your case.
