Tighter Regs Sought For Parachute Ops

The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is recommending changes in aircraft maintenance and pilot training for parachute jump operators, after identifying safety issues discovered in a special investigation. NTSB concluded in its report to FAA and the Unites States Parachute Association that “a pattern of safety deficiencies” needs to be addressed, including inadequate aircraft maintenance and inspections, a lack of pilot training programs and too little FAA oversight and direct surveillance. NTSB notes that since 1980, 32 accidents have taken the lives of 172 people in parachute flights that were not related to the act of jumping from the aircraft. “Our recommendation in the areas of maintenance and training will move this industry forward in preventing these types of accidents,” says Acting NTSB Chairman Mark Rosenker.
For related news