Puma Pilot error, led to SAS deaths in Iraq

[Dunk]

More negative press for the Puma fleet, with pilot error primarily being blamed for the death of 2 SAS soldiers in Iraq during 2007.

He also said it was "inexplicable" a fuel valve had not been the subject of any checks for almost 30 years. The inquest at Hereford Town Hall had heard that an anti-spill valve on the crashed helicopter was faulty and that the device might have prevented a fire taking hold so rapidly.

Full story on BBC website - Linky

[sjnovis]

I saw this report on the news also, it is believed the crash was caused by the pilot losing orientation with the ground becasue he did not have Dispaly Night Vision Goggle, which I believe allow the user to be able to see outside and the flight instuments.

He was landing at night, onto sand, the downdraft caused a sand storm, which engulfed the aircraft, this is why the pilot lot his horizon.

Also the soldiers in the back could not be strapped in becuase with all their equipment on, the belts were not long enough.

Another instance where if the correct equipment was available, this would possibly not have happened.