Rotorcraft
U.S. Navy Updates Guidance for Helicopter Inspections
The U.S. Naval Air Systems Command issued updated guidance for inspecting Sikorsky CH/MH-53E heavy lift helicopters.
An MH-53E Sea Dragon lands on the deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde. (Photo: U.S. Navy)
An MH-53E Sea Dragon lands on the deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde. (Photo: U.S. Navy)

The U.S. Naval Air Systems Command (Navair) issued new inspection guidance for Sikorsky CH/MH-53E helicopters on February 9, further responding to the crash of an MH-53E in January 2014 that claimed the lives of three sailors. The directive contains instructions for inspecting for chafing damage involving cabin fuel and hydraulic tubes and any hoses and electrical wiring within 18 inches of those components.