The importance of virtual training concepts and systems when training crew members was a key focus at DRF Luftrettung’s second Helicopter Hoist Operation Symposium

In September, DRF Luftrettung’s Operation Center gathered hoist experts from Europe and overseas to discuss issues relating to safe hoist operation.

“Virtual training concepts are the future because they professionalize the crew members’ training,” said Sebastian Schneider, Head of Training at DRF Luftrettung and symposium organizer. When dealing with floods, climbing accidents or transporting workers, augmented- and virtual-reality technologies allow complex deployment scenarios to be played out repeatedly, realistically and independently of factors such as weather and time.

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) also emphasized that they are a useful addition to real-life flight training. In addition to training provider Priority 1, Reiser Simulation and Training and DRF Luftrettung also offered insights into current developments. The two partners demonstrated flight simulator connectivity for the first time – an outstanding feature of their new helicopter hoist operator simulator. The live audience saw how a connection was made to the Reiser Full Flight Simulator Level D in Frankfurt and how the hoist operator simulated a scenario with the pilot.

Practical demonstrations: from emergency procedures to catastrophes

The 15 specialized presentations examined the challenges of safe helicopter hoist operation. “Social factors such as communication between one another are now being considered more closely for the crew’s cooperation, in addition to professional skills. Crew members work hand in hand; precision and teamwork are always important,” explained Jörg Redetzky, Head of Crew Training.

The cable cut demonstration was a case in point. The audience saw live how a DRF Luftrettung helicopter with an activated hoist and rescue stretcher flew in and the hoist cable was cut off. A Collins Aerospace representative explained the steps of this rare emergency procedure, which requires maximum concentration. American manufacturer Vita Inclinata also presented a new product that's particularly useful in disaster or crisis situations: a self-stabilizing load-carrying system. It prevents stretcher spin on the hoist using thrust technology.

Working together for safe hoist operation

Schneider said: “We are proud to have succeeded in establishing a European platform for helicopter hoist operation. The positive response from our participants, and even greater response compared to last year, shows that we are all pulling together to make helicopter hoist operation even safer. We are deeply grateful to our sponsors Bell Helicopters, Breeze Eastern, Collins Aerospace and Vita Inclinata. We absolutely want to continue the symposium over the next few years.”

© Voyageur Publishing & Events 2019