GA figures prominently on NTSB ‘Most Wanted List’

The NTSB has released its “Most Wanted List” for 2015 and general aviation figures prominently on the list.

Besides “Prevent Loss of Control in General Aviation,” other items on the list that pertain to general aviation, according to NTSB officials, include:

• Disconnect from Distraction;
• Eliminate Substance Impairment in Transportation;
• Enhance Public Helicopter Safety;
• Strengthen Procedural Compliance; and
• Require Medical Fitness for Duty.

“The Most Wanted List is our roadmap for 2015,” said NTSB Acting Chairman Christopher A. Hart. “We want it to be a roadmap for policy makers and legislators as well. These are safety improvements for which the time is ripe for action.”

Distraction and impairment are still key issues for the NTSB, and both are on the list again this year.

Also on the list this year is safety of helicopters operated by local, state, and federal governments. Pilots who fly search and rescue and law enforcement missions require safer operations.

Most airplane crashes happen in general aviation, according to NTSB officials. Last year the NTSB’s Most Wanted List prioritized identification and communication of hazardous weather in general aviation. This year, the board is focusing on preventing loss-of-control crashes in general aviation.

“This list is grounded in the accident investigations by which NTSB learns safety lessons, and in the recommendations that are NTSB’s primary safety product,’’ Hart said. “At the NTSB we want to make new strides in transportation safety in 2015, and we want to lay the groundwork for years that are even safer.”