Coastguard rescue helicopters are not fit for purpose: report

Dutch coastguard helicopters used for search and rescue missions at sea are unsafe and medical protocol is routinely flouted, a confidential report seen by the NRC has concluded. The investigation, which was carried out by safety experts from KLM, Schiphol and the aviation knowledge centre, found the aircraft are so small there ‘was little room for manoeuvre around patients’, making it almost impossible to even open a bag with medical aids. Helicopter staff also said they were worried about their...