The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the cause of a deadly helicopter crash in Newfoundland and a close call in Australia. Inspectors believe that broken titanium studs resulted in a loss of oil pressure that ultimately causing helicopter crashes. Although it is likely, the broken studs have yet to be identified as the actual cause of the two accidents. Leaving noting to chance, Sikorsky, which has ninety one of the S-92 helicopters in service, immediately implemented a directive to change all titanium studs to steel. Sikorsky should be applauded for their quick action to remedy a problem such as this in the wake of litigation.
Richard J. Arsenault, 2011
