EASTCARE COMMS QUESTION

[crossbow31]

I WAS WONDERING IF ANYONE KNEW WHAT IT MEANT WHEN AN EASTCARE HELO PILOT TELLS EASTCARE COMMS "RISK 1, 2, OR 3" WHEN IT IS LIFTING OFF TO RESPOND TO A CALL. IT USUALLY FOLLOWS THE SOULS ON BOARD AND FUEL ON BOARD COMMENT. I MONITORED THEM YEARS BACK AND DONT RECALL THEM USING THE RISK NUMBERS. THANKS FOR THE HELP.

 

[Unidener]

I don't know but I bet if you don't yell.....you may get a response.....

 

[blueline_308]

From Google:

EMS helicopter pilots often refer to a "risk" score (such as "Risk 9" or "Risk Assessment 9") during takeoff or pre-flight briefings as part of a formal Pre-Flight Risk Assessment (PFRA) tool, which is mandated by the FAA. This score is not a measurement of a single hazard, but a cumulative, company-specific numerical score representing the total risk level of the mission. [1, 2, 3, 4]


Here is a breakdown of why this is done and what it means:

• Risk Mitigation Tool: The score is calculated using a matrix that considers multiple factors, including crew endurance, weather conditions, aircraft performance, and operational complexity. It is used to identify potential hazards and determine if the mission can be safely completed.
• Company-Specific Thresholds: The number (e.g., 9) relates to a, often color-coded, scale (Low, Medium, High). If a pilot calculates a high risk score (like 9, depending on the operator's scale), it generally requires mitigation strategies or approval from a supervisor before the flight can proceed.
• Focus on Safety: Since HEMS (Helicopter Emergency Medical Services) often operate at night, in poor weather, or in uncontrolled environments, these assessments are critical to prevent accidents, particularly Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT).
• Static vs. Dynamic Factors: The score is determined by combining "static" factors (pilot experience, duty time) and "dynamic" factors (current weather, landing site conditions). [1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8]

Other Potential Interpretations:

• Takeoff Charts:
  Some pilots might refer to a "9" or "9A" chart in Jeppesen publications, which refers to airport-specific takeoff minimums
  .
• Max Performance Takeoff: Occasionally, "9" might be part of a non-standardized briefing for a specific, high-power takeoff maneuver, though "Risk 9" generally refers to the assessment tool. [9]

In summary, hearing a pilot say "Risk 9" means they are confirming that they have assessed the risks, implemented necessary safety measures, and are cleared to proceed with the takeoff. [5]

AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] Medical Helicopter Risk Levels
[2] https://asma.kglmeridian.com/downloadpdf/view/journals/amhp/90/4/article-p396.pdf
[3] Medical Helicopter Risk Levels
[4] https://downloads.regulations.gov/FAA-2024-2597-0002/attachment_1.pdf
[5] https://helicopterforum.verticalreference.com/topic/19771-what-is-the-ultimate-risk-assessment/
[6] https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/154193129003401420
[7] HEMS Safety Risks | SKYbrary Aviation Safety
[8] Preflight Risk Assessment for Improved Safety in Helicopter Emergency Medical Service Operations - PubMed
[9] https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2021/september/pilot/turbine-mentor-matters-takeoff-risk