METRO AVIATION CONTINUES INVESTMENT IN SAFETY

July 14, 2021

Metro Aviation is constantly looking for new opportunities to maximize safety efforts, and recently added an extra layer of safety for pilots flying under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR).

Single-Pilot IFR in a helicopter requires high levels of skill, training, and professional aptitude. Metro worked with Foreflight to increase each pilot’s situational awareness by providing a map overlay of IFR approaches. Capitalizing on ForeFlight’s “Bring Your Own Plate” option, the company added more than 300 proprietary Point-In-Space geo-referenced hospital-based approaches and departures to its Electronic Flight Bags (EFB). 

“This upgrade enhances our IFR operations from two perspectives; first, it allows us to have our proprietary approaches and departures quickly accessible and at our fingertips. This feature is extremely beneficial from an efficiency perspective in the IFR environment,” said Metro Pilot Matt Johnson. “Second, and more importantly, this upgrade provides us with enhanced situational awareness by helping us visualize exactly where we are during the various segments of an instrument approach or departure from a hospital.”

“Our pilots are now able to quickly pull up these approach and departure procedures just like a normal approach plate,” said Brian Bihler, Metro’s Director of Operation. Bihler added, “We are constantly looking for ways to not only enhance safety in our operations but also provide our pilots with the best tools available for situational awareness and efficiency. 

“This forward-thinking enhancement made by our senior leadership shows Metro’s commitment to the safest operations for their pilots and customers,” said Johnson.

Metro Aviation is the largest traditional air medical operator in the country, providing pilots and technicians for more than 150 aircraft across the United States.

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