Safety in aerial firefighting operations requires constant vigilance, according to Chrysanthos Hadjichrysanthou, Chairman of the Board of the Mediterranean Flight Safety Foundation, who spoke to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA).
He also said that while Cyprus has a satisfactory oversight framework in place, there is always room for improvement.
"Safety is a process of continuous improvement," he said, stressing that safety must remain everyone's top priority.
Too early for conclusions
Asked whether lessons can already be drawn from the recent fatal collision involving two helicopters in Greece, Hadjichrysanthou said it is far too early to reach reliable conclusions before the official investigation is completed.
"However, every such incident serves as a reminder that safety in aerial firefighting operations requires constant vigilance."
He said helicopters used in such missions must hold valid airworthiness certification, be maintained in accordance with manufacturer requirements and aviation regulations, and be operated by properly trained and experienced crews.
Possible causes of such accidents, he noted, may include human factors, technical failures, adverse weather conditions, or a combination of these factors.
"Prevention is based on strict adherence to procedures, quality training, proper maintenance and effective risk management."
Regular technical inspections
Asked about the inspections required for aircraft operating in Cyprus and the frequency of such checks, Hadjichrysanthou said all aircraft must comply with the requirements of the competent Civil Aviation Authority and, where applicable, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations.
Technical inspections are carried out at predetermined intervals under approved maintenance programmes, while pre-flight inspections are conducted before each mission.
These checks include, among other things:
- The helicopter's general condition.
- Aircraft systems.
- Fuel supplies.
- Equipment.
- Operational readiness.
Operational limits apply
Regarding the impact of extreme temperatures, strong winds and smoke on flight safety, Hadjichrysanthou said operational limits are established by manufacturers, operators and mission procedures.
"The final decision on whether a flight can be conducted safely is always taken by the aircraft captain, with safety as the overriding consideration."
He added that crew training must be continuous and include specialised instruction for aerial firefighting missions, regular exercises and assessments of operational competence.
Cyprus has a solid framework
Asked whether Cyprus' current oversight framework is adequate, Hadjichrysanthou said the country has a satisfactory system of controls in place.
Nevertheless, he stressed that improvements can always be made through enhanced training, better coordination among stakeholders, the use of new technologies and the exchange of experience with other countries.
He also noted that training should continually evolve for pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers and everyone involved in preparing and conducting flights.
Safety culture is the key lesson
Asked what lessons Cyprus can draw from the recent accident regardless of the investigation's final findings, Hadjichrysanthou said the most important lesson is that authorities should not wait for a final report before strengthening safety culture.
"Every incident is an opportunity to review procedures, training, communication and operational planning so that risks can be continuously reduced."
He said the Foundation regularly organises conferences and workshops bringing together aviation safety professionals to discuss issues that could affect flight operations if left unresolved.
The conclusions from these meetings are shared with the relevant authorities and organisations so that necessary improvements can be implemented.
Message to pilots and the public
Addressing pilots, Hadjichrysanthou expressed respect and appreciation for the demanding work they perform.
"Their mission is invaluable, but no mission is worth more than human life."
He stressed that if a pilot determines that a flight cannot be conducted safely, whether because of the aircraft's condition, adverse weather or airspace restrictions, they have both the right and the legal obligation to refuse the mission.
He added that pilots should receive full protection from their employers when making such decisions.
To the wider public, he said:
"People should trust the professionals carrying out these operations, follow the instructions of the competent authorities and remember that behind every aerial firefighting aircraft are individuals working under highly demanding and dangerous conditions."
"Safety must remain everyone's top priority."
As the Flight Safety Foundation slogan states:
"Safety is a shared value."
Source: CNA
