A Line Operations Safety Audit for Helicopter Operations (LOSA-H) is a proactive, formal process that requires expert and highly trained observers to observe helicopter operations in real-time.
LOSA-H for rotor-wing operators has observers collecting rich, safety-related data on:
- Environmental conditions;
- Operational complexity; and
- Human performance in the cockpit.
Numerous operator and environmental threats exist in every helicopter operating environment. These threats can be due to
- Weather;
- Delays;
- Maintenance;
- Procedures; and more.
LOSA-H for helicopter operations is an ideal way to identify these threats and understand pilot responses. LOSA also reveals how errors and undesired aircraft states are managed by the helicopter pilots.
- LOSA-H must not be seen as a checkride or a line check.
- Effective LOSA programs are confidential and nonpunitive.
A LOSA is conducted by a non-threatening company employee (typically another experienced helicopter pilot) who rides along taking notes on what is happening during the course of a normal flight.
Independent observations from LOSA-H add an objective snapshot of the daily helicopter operation. These observations help determine the effectiveness of:
- Standard operating procedures;
- Routine checklists;
- Defined procedures; and
- Special mitigation factors implemented for a particular operator.
Once all the data are collected, final reports are written. Recommendations are made to management to both reinforce the positives and improve the negatives.
Helicopter LOSA programs enable rotary wing operators to manage threats and errors so that those threats and errors do not turn into accidents and incidents in the future. With LOSA-H, your organization is being predictive—which is the ultimate form of proactive safety!
Benefits of LOSA for Helicopter Operators
- Potential insurance savings;
- Reduction in costs due to damaged aircraft and property;
- Improved employee morale; and
- Increased employee safety awareness.