Pause for safety: Recognizing and preventing LOC-I Loss of control in-flight (LOC-I) has remained one of the top three causes of fatal helicopter accidents for over a decade. It can occur suddenly, often during routine operations, leaving little time for recovery. LOC-I can reveal its ugly head in several ways, including vortex ring state, low-G conditions, unanticipated yaw, and over- or under-controlling the aircraft. So how can you avoid LOC-I? First and foremost, become the master of your trade. Get to know your aircraft more intimately. How does it feel and sound when operating in the green? Control intervention has also proven crucial in preventing accidents, underscoring the importance of regular training with qualified instructors. Recognizing early warning signs and reinforcing correct and timely responses are crucial. Even experienced pilots are susceptible; complacency and overconfidence can be silent threats. Finally, reinforce your knowledge by getting in the books and reviewing the vast library of safety information available online—much of it focused on prevention and recovery from LOC-I. As part of our commitment to safety, we encourage all pilots to participate in the 2025 National Pause for General Aviation Safety. This initiative invites you to dedicate 15 to 60 minutes over the next six months to review safety materials tailored to your flying activities. By doing so, you can earn FAA WINGS credit and contribute to a culture of continuous safety improvement. For more information and resources, please visit GASafe.org.
