Redback aviation helicopter survival kit

So it's another beautiful day and you have planned (or spontaneously planned) a flight. It might just be a few miles, or an overnighter. You've lodged your flight plan, notified the appropriate authorities, organised fuel and research you route. The chopper has had a thorough pre-flight, log books checked etc... Bags packed (if any) and you are ready to go!... or are you?? Although there are many details not included here, we are referring to one ofen overlooked preperation for ANY flight!

Did you pack a survival kit? The importance is obvious but to some who think, "I'm just flying to the next town or even just the next field so should be fine", well how many times have we heard of motor vehicle accidents on major roads where people were not found for days? They just happened to end up in a place of low visibility.

We have all heard of stories of people dying of thirst in deserts, bleeding out from injuries or even cutting off there own arms just to save their life. Who of these people were adequetly prepared?

Though it may add but a few pounds/kilos to your gross weight calculations it should be considered a part of your aircraft that is checked during every pre-flight.

Water
Food (long life rations for easy long term storage)
Basic First Aid Kit
EPIRB (very affordable insurance)
Basic Tools
A Torch, mirror, tea candle and a magnet
Flint for fire, string and/or rope
Survival Knife and or Swiss army knife
A couple of basic spares known to occassionally fail eg. drive belts
Survival blanket (they pack tiny and can provide shade and a reflective signal)
A VHF airband handheld radio (becoming ever more affordable - see our online store)
Firearm, fire extinguisher
Maybe even a cap or hat, spare sunglasses
...and don't forget some toilet paper!

Now while there is no set standard for what might be included in your kit, the above suggestions may help get you started.

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