COVID-19 Update: 13/05/2020
Whilst the aviation sector is facing a challenging time due to the disruption and uncertainty caused by COVID-19, we at ICE Helicopters are working hard to keep abreast of all of the latest developments with regards to the ‘restart’ of the helicopter training sector. We are hoping it won’t be too long now as we are all desperate to take to the freedom of the sky once more!
Meetings are now being held by the Department of Transport Recovery, Response and Engagement Team and the CAA to look at General Aviation policies with a view to restarting with clear guidance aligned to that of the UK Government.
The first immediate requirement to start flying again is definitive permission for single pilot helicopter activity to take place. This will begin as key issues are being considered – things such as airfield operations, helicopter maintenance, licencing & medical validity, check flights to compensate for skill fade and of course COVID related risks with the need for emerging practices to allow for social distancing & PPE.
With all of this in mind, Elstree Aerodrome and ICE Helicopters are enhancing their internal Safety Management Systems with additional procedures in respect of staff, infrastructure and equipment. This is in line with CAA advice, along with the advice of other representative bodies, such as the British Helicopter Association (BHA) and the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (AOPA). As you can imagine there is a slew of new information to take in daily!
Using the CAA and DfT guidelines, along with our own preparations and those of the airfield management, we are on the way to forming the practice we will carry out for a safe and measured return to flying at the earliest opportunity.
We hope this not only is informative, but gives you the peace of mind that we are doing all we can to get you back enjoying your flying safely! If you wish to receive email updates on our ‘Return to Flying’ plans, please contact harriet@ice.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you and seeing you soon!