Z-9 helicopter shouldn’t have flown without timely servicing — Yaw Lartey
Yaw Lartey, a seasoned aviation expert, has criticized the decision to allow the Z-9 helicopter to operate without timely maintenance, emphasizing the potential risks to pilots, passengers, and public safety. The remarks come amid scrutiny of recent helicopter operations in Ghana.
According to Lartey, helicopter operations demand strict adherence to maintenance schedules, and any deviation from established protocols can lead to mechanical failures or catastrophic accidents. He warned that such oversights not only compromise safety but also violate aviation regulations and international standards.
The Z-9 helicopter, widely used for government operations and VIP transport, underwent routine inspections that experts argue were either incomplete or delayed. Lartey stressed that operational readiness must be validated by certified engineers before any flight is authorized. Failure to comply undermines confidence in aviation safety procedures.
Aviation stakeholders have called for more robust oversight mechanisms, including periodic audits, real-time maintenance tracking, and better training for technical personnel. They also recommended that helicopters used in official capacities have independent verification of service records before flight missions.
This statement by Lartey underscores broader concerns about aviation safety in Ghana, where growing demand for helicopter services requires rigorous maintenance culture and institutional accountability. Experts assert that preventative maintenance is far more cost-effective than post-accident investigations and repair.
The Aviation Authority has yet to issue an official response, but industry observers expect stricter guidelines and closer monitoring of all government and private helicopter fleets to prevent future incidents.
