Citation

Crowley JS, Geyer SL. Aviat. Space Environ. Med. 1993; 64(9 Pt 1): 854-858.

Affiliation

Crew Life Support Branch, U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory, Fort Rucker, AL 36362-5292.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1993, Aerospace Medical Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

8216149

Abstract

Rotor blade injuries are an inherent hazard of helicopter operations. To determine the recent incidence of rotor blade injuries in the U.S. Army, a review of accident records (1972-91) was conducted. Crash-related injuries were not included. During the study period, there were 24 blade strike injuries (12 involving the main rotor), 11 (46%) of which were fatal. Comparison with previous reports indicates a lower rotor blade injury rate in the last decade than in any previous period. The head was injured most frequently (65%), followed by the chest (17%) and abdomen (7%). Protective helmets helped to reduce injury in several instances. Flight crew comprised 49% of the victims, passengers 29%, ground crew 14%, and bystanders 8%. Helicopter crews must maintain situational awareness when around turning blades--professional training alone does not guarantee protection from rotor blade injury.

Language: en