VAI applauds release of FAA SAIB on rotorcraft loss of control prevention technology The FAA has issued a special airworthiness information bulletin highlighting how stability augmentation and autopilot systems can significantly reduce loss-of-control and unintended entry into IMC accidents. The guidance is informational (not mandatory) but encourages operators to evaluate and voluntarily adopt stability augmentation systems/stability control augmentation systems and autopilot solutions appropriate to their aircraft and mission. VAI strongly supports the voluntary adoption of performance-based safety-enhancing technologies where owners and operators can reasonably integrate them. For additional information summarizing the benefits of safety-enhancing technology, see this US Helicopter Safety Team white paper, “Loss-of-Control In-Flight Mitigation through Installation of Stability Augmentation and Autopilot Systems in Light Helicopters.”
