Inexperienced Pilot Crashes Air Ambulance
A pilot and his three passengers died when the air ambulance they were in crashed into a mountain range during a blizzard.
The aircraft was en route from a hospital to transfer an emergency heart patient to a hospital more able to provide adequate care. It was approaching the airport when it went missing.
A major winter storm hit that day, but blizzard conditions were not sufficient to have been the sole cause of the crash. The craft was flying over two ridges and came over the first but crashed into the rocky face of the second.
The pilot had considerable experience flying in the area, but didn’t have considerable experience in the specific aircraft. The plane’s reliability in hazardous weather conditions was suspect, because it had unique handling characteristics. Experienced pilots of that aircraft recommended special flight training courses that include simulator training before using the specific craft in emergency situations.
As with any machinery or equipment, it is important to review safety records prior to using aircraft in emergency situations. As an operator, ensure you have sufficient experience in the operation of any equipment used