Safety Recommendation A-14-106

Sergeant Scott wrote that the Airborne Public Safety Association (APSA) audits the GSP’s safety management system on a recurring basis. This action satisfies Safety Recommendation A-14-106, which is classified “Closed—Acceptable Action.”

Thank you for your commitment to aviation safety.

We understand that NSP air operations do not use an SMS. Therefore, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 remain classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION.

-From SFC Lance G. Scott, Georgia State Patrol Aviation Division: I just wanted to update you on the A-14-106 recommendation status. The last DOI site audit completed was in February of 2019. Site reviews should occur every three years.

I have ASPA sending me the date of their last audit as well , and we are trying to establish a date for them to visit again in 2022.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Because an outside organization does not audit the SLED’s SMS every 3 years, as recommended, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION.

We note that, after the MSP implents a comprehensive SMS, it intends to have an external organization audit it every 3 years. Accordingly, Safety Recommendation A-14-105 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that, after implementing its SMS, the THP will consider having an outside organization audit it. Because the THP has not yet completed the recommended action, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION.

Captain Gutierrez wrote that a trained NMSP safety officer is working with the Airborne Law Enforcement Association to create an SMS, and that the NMSP will arrange for recurring audits through the Airborne Law Enforcement Association after the SMS is implemented. Although these are positive steps toward addressing these recommendations, because the NMSP has not yet implemented an SMS, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 remain classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION.

An SMS audit is a comprehensive process designed to review the effectiveness of an SMS program. SMS audit activities might include determining the level of risk present in a system, determining risk mitigations, documenting levels of compliance, and identifying the impact of noncompliance.

Based on our communication, we understand that three outside organizations interact with the GSP’s aviation program: the US Department of the Interior (DOI), which inspects the GSP’s aviation program as a part of its partnership with the GSP; the Airborne Public Safety Association (APSA), which conducts a safety audit of the GSP flight program; and Baldwin Aviation (BA), which provides the GSP’s SMS program. We note that BA tracks trends, points out issues, and documents safety concerns for the GSP. We also understand that BA offers SMS audits.

Please clarify whether the GSP’s SMS is audited by BA, the ASPA, the DOI, or any other third party organization and, if so, how often these audits occur. Pending our receipt and review of this information, Safety Recommendation A 14 106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

Colonel Zebley wrote that the Delaware State Police (DSP) completed the Airborne Law Enforcement Association’s (ALEA’s) accreditation in June 2018. We note that the DSP’s SMS was audited as part of the initial ALEA accreditation, and it is audited at least every 3 years as a part of the DPS’s reaccreditation. This satisfies Safety Recommendation A-14-106, which is classified CLOSED-- ACCEPTABLE ACTION.

Thank you for your commitment to transportation safety.

We note that the VSP’s SMS was never audited. Although you plan to address this recommendation in the future, because the VSP’s SMS is not currently audited every 3 years by an outside organization, as recommended, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION.

Captain Seal wrote that after the MHP implements a comprehensive SMS, it intends to comply with this recommendation; however, because this action is not yet complete, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION.

We note that the ISP will have an outside organization audit its SMS at least every 3 years. Pending completion of the recommended action, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that an outside organization audits ASP’s operations when funds are available, and that two audits have been completed since we issued this recommendation in 2014. Because an outside organization conducts recurring audits of the ASP, although the audits could fall outside of the recommended 3-year window, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified CLOSED-- ACCEPTABLE ALTERNATE ACTION.

-From Commissioner Jeff Long, Commissioner & Governor’s Homeland Security Advisor: A Safety Management System (SMS) audit has not been performed by an outside organization. However, this will be considered as the aviation division is continually reviewing the program and making changes for more safety and accountability.

-From Colonel Matthew C. Langer, Chief, Minnesota State Patrol: Open; In Progress- Upon formalization of a safety management system as described in A-14-105, audits will be conducted every three years. MSP will have an external audit no later than the end of calendar year 2022.

-From Captain Emmanuel T. Gutierrez, New Mexico State Police, Special Operations Bureau: On September 28, 2021, the National Transportation Safety Board issued Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 to the State of New Mexico as a result of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety that impacted terrain while conducting a search and rescue flight.

The following pages outline what New Mexico State Police is doing in response to the issued safety recommendations. Furthermore, attached are specific requested documents.

Please review and inform us if we are addressing these recommendations appropriately.

Thank you and we look forward to hearing back.

A. The NMSP Aircraft Section is currently working on implementing a comprehensive SMS program. Once up and running the unit will be working with APSA to schedule a recurring audit.

From Brian L. Petersen, Sergeant, Special Operations Division/ Aviation, Nebraska State Patrol: This correspondence is written in response to your letter dated September 29th, 2021 to the Honorable Pete Ricketts, Governor, State of Nebraska, with regard to Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through - 106. The writing encompasses formalized training and evaluation for safety of flight conditions germane to Law Enforcement operations and the environment of such operations.

1. In response to a-14-100; the agency references SOP 40-1, 05-03-01, Flight Requirements/Restrictions. The Nebraska State Patrol shall follow Federal Aviation regulations for visibility requirements, flight communications, prefight inspections and logbook requirements. Enumerated under document is VFR Ceiling and Visibility Requirements for flight operations. This document was revised on September of 2010 and again on July 2021, increasing the visibility and ceiling requirements for day and night time operations.

2. A-14-101. Our aviation unit is largely dispatched internally by our agency. Upon the assignment of a flight the Pilot in Command is responsible for flight condition evaluation and assesses those conditions with the assigned second pilot/TFO. Flight in the eastern geographic part of the state is covered by Omaha Approach TRACON facility. Flight in the lesser populated parts of the state are done under flight following where applicable. Flight operations are in contact with dispatchers internal to the agency in all cases.

3. A-14-102. All pilots who are NVG qualified and perform NVG operations maintain flight currency under FAR 61.57, NVG pilot currency requirements as well as conduct a NVG training/proficiency flight at the Bell Helicopter Training academy as part of annual refresher/emergency procedures.

4. A-14-103. All pilots who are rotorcraft pilots receive scenario based simulator training at the Bell Helicopter Training Academy as part of refresher/emergency procedures in the applicable model of helicopter to be operated.

5. A-14-104. The agency has implemented a formal TFO program, 02-04-01, effective March, 2019. Further the program has evolved into specific requirements of TFO selection and training in 2020.

-From Mark A. Keel, Chief, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division: The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division has a proud history of utilizing a variety of aviation resources dating back to 1953. Currently, the SLED Aviation Unit operates two MD 500E helicopters and one Bell 407 helicopter in providing 24-hour a day aviation assets to all of the law enforcement agencies within the State of South Carolina.

The Aviation Unit has assisted throughout the state in searching for missing persons, conducting fugitive searches, narcotics operations, an array of surveillance missions, personnel and asset transport, tactical operations/SWAT support, natural disaster response, executive protection details, national security operations, and port security operations.

In 2017, the SLED Aviation Unit began to put safety measures and policies in place that mirrored recommendations from the NTSB and Airborne Public Safety Association. Since that time, SLED has implemented a Safety Management System, aircraft tracking procedures, Emergency Response Plan, and regularly scheduled safety stand-down training for all pilots. Pre-Covid, SLED also worked to provide annual training for all public safety aviation units located in South Carolina. SLED has also installed furnished sleeping quarters that are available for pilots to utilize when needed. SLED pilots receive factory training from MD Helicopter and Bell Helicopter.

In addition, SLED utilizes a FAA repair station for all aircraft maintenance and inspections.

The Aviation Unit strives to work towards meeting recommendations from the Airborne Public Safety Accreditation Commission (APSAC) guidelines. SLED is committed to providing a safety-oriented environment for all pilots and personnel associated with the Aviation Unit to continue to provide professional aviation services to the state of South Carolina.

SLED is working with other law enforcement aviation units within the state to provide annual training for all pilots and personnel that operate public safety aviation assets in South Carolina. SLED also consults with its insurance broker and other South Carolina agencies with aviation assets on an annual basis for guidance on current market safety trends and practices. In addition, pre-COVID, SLED has provided annual flight training by factory instructors or third party instructors to evaluate pilots.

Colonel Gary T. Settle, Superintendent, Virginia State Police: The Division does not currently get audited by any outside agencies. Once a safety management system is in place, the Division will be in a position to research possible outside agencies to conduct an audit.

-From Ray Corey, Arkansas State Police: I have attached a safety audit that we completed through our insurance company on August 31, 2018. Hopefully this is what you are needing. If you need anything else let me know. Thanks

-From Sergeant First Class Lance Scott, Georgia State Patrol, Aviation Division: For almost a decade, the Georgia State Patrol Aviation Division has used the Baldwin Safety Management program. This is a private company that specializes in safety management procedures.

? The program records and captures all data related to each flight conducted by the Department.

? The Baldwin Safety Management System continuously monitors and immediately alerts the Division to all possible hazardous trends.

-From Colonel Melissa A. Zebley, Superintendent, Delaware State Police: The Delaware State Police have completed the Airborne Law Enforcement Association accreditation process in June of 20 18 and are slated for reaccreditation at the end of 202 1. (There were delays due to COYID restrictions). As part of this accreditation process our SMS have been and will continue to be audited on a recurring bas is, at least every three years.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to West Virginia, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the commonwealth of Virginia, and we have not received any information regarding your actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On December 28, 2017, we noted that the Aero Bureau was developing an SMS. Please tell us if the Aero Bureau has developed and is using an SMS that includes an audit requirement. Pending our receipt and review of this information, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 remain classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

On May 18, 2016, we were encouraged to learn that the DPS was in the process of applying for Airborne Law Enforcement Association (ALEA) accreditation, which would include an on-site visit and review of the department’s policies, procedures, and operations (including those related to an SMS). Please tell us if the DPS obtained the ALEA accreditation and confirm that an audit requirement included in the ALEA standards. Pending our receipt and review of this information, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of Tennessee, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response. I

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of South Carolina, and we have not received any information regarding your actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On June 10, 2015, we noted that the PRPD had incorporated some safety management processes, but that it did not have a formal SMS. We encouraged the PRPD to develop a formal SMS that is appropriate for its size. Please tell us if the PRPD has implemented a formal SMS that includes an audit requirement. Pending our receipt and review of the answer to this question, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 remain classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

On January 19, 2018, we noted that, although the PSP had incorporated some safety management processes, it did not have a formal SMS. We encouraged the PSP to develop a formal SMS that is appropriate for its size and operations and includes an audit requirement. Please tell us if the PSP has implemented a formal SMS that includes an audit requirement. Pending our receipt and review of this information, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 remain classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of Oregon, and we have not received any information regarding Oregon’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On December 15, 2017, we noted that the OHP had incorporated some safety management processes and was considering becoming accredited by the Airborne Law Enforcement Association; however, it did not have a formal SMS. We are interested in learning about any completed or planned actions to address these recommendations. Pending our receipt and review of this information, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 remain classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

On March 17, 2015, we noted that, once your SMS was fully developed and operational, you would arrange for an outside organization to audit your SMS every 3 years, as recommended. Pending completion of that action, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of North Dakota, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On June 10, 2015, we noted that the SHP was in the process of arranging for regular audits of its SMS. Pending our receipt and review of information about whether the SHP has implemented these audits, Safety Recommendation A 14-106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued, and we have not received any additional information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. We would appreciate receiving a response from you within 90 days regarding actions that North Carolina has completed or planned to address these recommendations.

Please update us at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov on your progress toward implementing these recommendations, and do not submit both an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of New York, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of New Mexico, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On June 24, 2015, we acknowledged that the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) regularly reviewed and evaluated its SMS; however, we encouraged the NJSP to arrange for regular independent audits. Pending our receipt of information on whether the NJSP has implemented a program for regular independent audits of its SMS, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since this recommendation was issued, and we have not received any additional information regarding your state’s actions to implement it. Please update us at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov on your progress toward implementing this recommendation, and do not submit both an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of New Hampshire, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of Nevada, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of Missouri, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

-From Captain Jason Seal, Director, Mississippi Highway Patrol, Air Operations: Once the above recommendations are achieved and implemented we will request an Audit as per this recommendation. Hopefully at that point we will be accredited through the Airborne Public Safety Association as well.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of Mississippi, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On May 4, 2015, we noted that the MSP did not have an SMS, but was planning to implement one. We encouraged the MSP to develop a basic, formal, and appropriate SMS program that includes the recommended elements. Pending information on whether the MSP has implemented an SMS that includes regular audits, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 remain classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued, and we have not received any additional information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. We would appreciate receiving a response from you within 90 days regarding actions that Minnesota has completed or planned to address these recommendations. Please update us at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov on your progress toward implementing these recommendations, and do not submit both an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to Massachusetts, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCETPABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On July 15, 2015, we noted that the Maryland State Police were developing an SMS that would include regular and independent audits. Pending completion of this program, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since this recommendation was issued, and we have not received any additional information regarding your state’s actions to implement it. We would appreciate receiving a response from you within 90 days regarding actions that Maryland has completed or planned to address this recommendation. Please update us at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov on your progress toward implementing this recommendation, and do not submit both an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of Maine, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

Please update us at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov on your progress toward implementing these recommendations, and do not submit both an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of Louisiana, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the commonwealth of Kentucky, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On May 4, 2015, we noted that you did not have an SMS. We encouraged you to develop a formal SMS and, once implemented, ensure it was regularly audited. Pending updates on your progress and completion of the recommended action, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 was classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued, and we have not received any additional information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. We would appreciate receiving a response from you within 90 days regarding actions that Kansas has completed or planned to address these recommendations.

Please update us at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov on your progress toward implementing these recommendations, and do not submit both an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of Indiana, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On April 26, 2017, we noted that you intended to re-examine this recommendation once your state’s budget had been approved. Please update us on the status of your efforts. Pending our receipt and review of this information, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued, and we have not received any additional information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. We would appreciate receiving a response from you within 90 days regarding actions that Illinois has completed or planned to address these recommendations. Please update us at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov on your progress toward implementing these recommendations, and do not submit both an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

-From M/Sgt. Damian Zimmerman, Illinois State Police- AirOps: The ISP AOB has developed and implemented a comprehensive safety management system (SMS) for aircraft operations. Our SMS is tailed to the specific missions of the ISP AOB and is based on industry best practices. The ISP AOB SMS is a multi-tiered approach to safety with a focus on preflight activities, a flight risk assessment tool including both static and dynamic factors, a safety board in a common area of the ISP AOB central office, and a safety-related hazard/occurrence reporting procedure.

First, safety of the flight starts with a personal assessment of each pilot. We use the acronym I’M SAFE which includes a personal assessment of the following factors affecting the overall safety of the pilot: I-Illness M-Medication S-Stress A-Attitude F-fatigue E-Emotion Following the personal assessment, a thorough preflight inspection and run-up is conducted before each flight.

Secondly, prior to takeoff, a pilot or crew member will complete a flight risk assessment tool (FRAT) form located on the back of each daily flight log. The FRAT includes static factors (i.e. illness, medication, fatigue, time in type, last flight, IMC, crew time, last maintenance, squawks, weight, and center of gravity) and dynamic factors (i.e. hours on duty, time of day, ceiling, visibility, winds, convective activity in the area, forecast, terrain, fog, icing, mission brief, and external pressure). After the form is completed, a total flight risk is assigned a numerical value. If the value is 0-5, the crew makes the go/no-go decision.

If the value is greater than 5, the flight requires supervisor approval from the ISP AOB Safety Officer, Chief Pilot, or Bureau Chief prior to takeoff. FRAT values can be mitigated by taking additional steps to ensure safety of flight with examples of mitigation listed on the FRAT form.

Thirdly, the safety board displays the safety section of the standard operating procedures, the FRAT tool, safety brochures, safety statistics, ISP AOB Mission statement, Values, Core Competencies, and Vision. The safety board is also where pilots can obtain an aircraft discrepancy log for use in the aircraft, as well as a Hazard/Occurrence report. The Hazard/Occurrence report is an anonymous way for pilots to be able to report any safety hazard or safety related occurrence to the Safety Officer. The Safety Officer can report the Hazard or Occurrence to the Bureau Chief for further review.

If the report involves the Safety Officer, then the report should be sent directly to the Bureau Chief. If the report involves the Bureau Chief, the report can be sent directly to the Chief Pilot and then to the Special Operations Command (SOCOM) Captain, if necessary.

On March 6, 2015, we noted that you were making arrangements for an outside organization to audit your SMS every 3 years, as recommended. We request an update on the status of this effort. Pending our receipt and review of this information, Safety Recommendation A 14 106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued, and we have not received any additional information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. We would appreciate receiving a response from you within 90 days regarding actions that Georgia has completed or planned to address these recommendations. Please update us at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov on your progress toward implementing these recommendations, and do not submit both an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On May 4, 2015, we noted that, once the FWC had implemented its SMS, it planned to arrange for the recommended recurring audit. Pending completion of this action, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued, and we have not received any additional information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. We would appreciate receiving a response from you within 90 days regarding actions that Florida has completed or planned to address these recommendations.

Please update us at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov on your progress toward implementing these recommendations, and do not submit both an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the District of Columbia and we have not received any information regarding the district’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On May 15, 2015, we noted that you were working to qualify for accreditation by the Airborne Law Enforcement Association and that your SMS would be audited on a recurring basis once you were accredited. We would like to know if you have completed the recommended actions. Pending our receipt of receipt and review of this information, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since this recommendation was issued, and we have not received any additional information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. We would appreciate receiving a response from you within 90 days regarding actions that Delaware has completed or planned to address this recommendation.

Please update us at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov on your progress toward implementing this recommendation, and do not submit both an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of Connecticut and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years; however, it has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued to the state of California, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On December 15, 2017, we noted that although the Arkansas State Police’s (ASP’s) SMS was audited by an outside organization shortly after its implementation in 2013, no additional audits have been conducted since. We would like to know if the ASP conducts the recommended audits at least every 3 years. Pending confirmation from you that the ASP is conducting regular audits of its SMS, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since this recommendation was issued, and we have not received any additional information regarding your state’s actions to implement it. We would appreciate receiving a response from you within 90 days regarding actions that Arkansas has completed or planned to address this recommendation.

Please update us at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov on your progress toward implementing this recommendation, and do not submit both an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On March 30, 2015, we noted that you were making arrangements for an outside organization to audit your SMS every 3 years, once fully developed and operational. Pending our receipt and review of an update regarding your progress, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued, and we have not received any additional information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. We would appreciate receiving a response from you within 90 days regarding actions that Alaska has completed or planned to address these recommendations.

Please update us at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov on your progress toward implementing these recommendations, and do not submit both an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued, and we have not received any information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. Accordingly, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED-- UNACCEPTABLE ACTION/ NO RESPONSE RECEIVED.

If you inform us, in a timely manner, of any responsive actions that you have taken or planned to address these recommendations, we may consider changing their classifications. Please e-mail us any relevant updates at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov, and do not send an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

Our May 4, 2015, correspondence that your agency was looking into having audits conducted on a regular basis by an outside organization, as recommended. Pending our receipt and review of an update regarding your progress, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 remains classified OPEN-- ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. It has now been over 6 years since these recommendations were issued, and we have not received any additional information regarding your state’s actions to implement them. We would appreciate receiving a response from you within 90 days regarding actions that Alabama has completed or planned to address these recommendations.

Please update us at ExecutiveSecretariat@ntsb.gov on your progress toward implementing these recommendations, and do not submit both an electronic and a hard copy of the same response.

On March 26, 2018, Major Christopher Grotton, MSP, informed our staff that the MSP operates two fixed wing aircraft, mostly for law enforcement missions. Major Grotton reported that the MSP does not operate any helicopters, but that the Maine Forest Service operates helicopters. On April 5, 2018, Mr. John Crowley, Maine Forest Service, informed our staff that the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is the state organization responsible for conducting SAR missions; however, because the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife does not operate any helicopters, the Maine Forest Service assists with SAR missions that require the use of helicopters.

Because these recommendations were specifically aimed at public operators who conduct helicopter SAR operations, we believe that the Maine Forest Service is the appropriate state organization to respond to Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, and Mr. Crowley informed us that he is in the process of developing a response. Pending our receipt of this information, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 remain classified OPEN--AWAIT RESPONSE.

On January 16, 2018, Mr. Ron Hauck, Aviation Service, South Dakota Department of Transportation, infomed our staff that the South Dakota Highway Patrol operates fixed wing aircraft for law enforcement missions; however, the state does not operate any helicopters. We believe that all air operations could benefit from the safety improvements specified in these recommendations, and we urge the state of South Dakota to make the recommended safety improvements to its air operations. However, because these recommendations were specifically aimed at public operators who conduct helicopter SAR operations, Safety Recommendations A 14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED--RECONSIDERED.

-From Major Christopher Grotton, Maine State Police, Support Services Division: This letter is in response to the NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13-21 and A-14-100 through -106 issued to the State of Maine in an August 2017 letter to Governor LePage.

The Maine State Police Air Wing has a small profile within the overall scope of aviation operations conducted within the State of Maine. We have two fixed wing aircraft in our inventory with no rotary wing asset.

Our core mission is primarily traffic related flights which are conducted during the daylight and in VFR conditions only. Any night VFR or day/night IFR flights that are requested would typically be administrative in nature and would be conducted operating under part 91 regulations.

When requested, we assist other aviation assets and agencies within the state under the conditions that the flight can be done within the confines of our Standard Operating Procedures Manual and our General Orders that pertains to the Air Wing.

Any search and rescue mission that we would be involved in would be conducted during daylight VFR only conditions. Our aircraft are equipped with wheels only and are not allowed to perform "off-site" landings.

We are restricted to published airports only. Those flights would also be conducted utilizing part 91 regulations.

I am in hopes that this information provides some context for our air operations and the applicability of the recommendations in your August 2017 letter. Our responses (below) to each of your recommendations are crafted within the context of our mission.

The Air Wing SOP and General Order are reviewed on a regular basis and changes are made when necessary. These documents are then reviewed by our staff attorney. We will explore the possibility of having an outside agency audit our SOP and General Order as it pertains to safety of flight.

We note that, although the PSP has incorporated some safety management processes, it does not currently have a formal SMS program. The International Helicopter Safety Team has developed the Safety Management System Toolkit to aid in the development of such a program, and the aid can be downloaded, free of charge, at http://ihst.org/Portals/54/SMS-Toolkit.pdf. The FAA’s Advisory Circular 120 92A, “Safety Management Systems for Aviation Service Providers,” is another useful resource. We encourage the PSP to review this guidance and to develop a formal SMS program that is appropriate for its size and operations.

Pending our receipt of future updates regarding the PSP’s progress in implementing an SMS and, once implemented, the regular auditing of the program, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 are classified OPEN--ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that, in 2014, the Public Safety Aviation Accreditation Commission (PSAAC) conducted a full external aviation safety audit of the AZDPS, and that the AZDPS has contracted with an outside organization to conduct external audits of the AZDPS’s SMS program every 3 years, with the first audit scheduled for the end of 2017. We further note that the AZDPS is in the process of applying for full PSAAC accreditation, which will include a pre-audit and formal certification audit. Because the AZDPS intends to arrange for regular auditing of its SMS program, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified CLOSED--ACCEPTABLE ACTION.

We note that the Colorado Army National Guard operates helicopters to conduct SAR missions, and that the Colorado State Police does not operate helicopters. We believe that all air operations could benefit from the safety improvements specified in these recommendations, and we urge the state of Colorado to make the recommended safety improvements to all its air operations. However, because these recommendations were specifically aimed at public operators

who conduct helicopter SAR operations, Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED--RECONSIDERED.

We are encouraged to learn that the Aero Bureau is currently developing an SMS program, and that it intends to have an outside organization audit the program periodically. Pending our receipt of updates regarding the Aero Bureau’s progress in implementing the system, and information about the organization that will be auditing it, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 are classified OPEN--ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that, although the OHP has incorporated some safety management processes and is considering becoming accredited by the Airborne Law Enforcement Association, it does not currently have a formal SMS program. We point out that the International Helicopter Safety Team has developed the Safety Management System Toolkit to aid in the development of such a program. This aid can be downloaded free of charge at http://ihst.org/Portals/54/SMS Toolkit.pdf. Another resource you may find helpful is the FAA’s Advisory Circular 120 92A, “Safety Management Systems for Aviation Service Providers.”

We encourage you to review this guidance and to develop a formal SMS program that is appropriate for the OHP. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding the OHP’s progress in

implementing an SMS and, once implemented, the regular auditing of the program, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 are classified OPEN--ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We understand that, although the ASP’s SMS program was audited by an outside organization shortly after its implementation in 2013, no additional audits have been conducted since. We believe that ongoing reviews are vital to ensuring the program’s effectiveness, improvement, and success. Therefore, we encourage the ASP to conduct the recommended audits at least every 3 years. Pending confirmation from you that the ASP intends to take this action, Safety Recommendation A 14 106 is classified OPEN--ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

-From Dennis Daugaard, Governor of South Dakota: As to recommendations A-13-21 and A-14-100 through -106, the South Dakota Highway Patrol has reviewed the recommendations, as well as the NTSB accident report, NTSB/AAR-14/03 PB2014-108877, including the findings, probable cause, and recommendations contained in that report. All flight operations conducted by the state of South Dakota are conducted under FAR Part 91 Rules and all FAR 91 Rules are currently being complied with. South Dakota will continue to conduct all flight operations in accordance with all federal aviation regulations.

-Leslie S. Richards, Secretary Department of Transportation, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania: Per our Department regulations, the PSP Aviation Section is inspected annually via Department Line inspection and every 3 years by the Bureau of Integrity and Professional Standards, Systems and Process Review Division. PSP is also continually inspected by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc., (CALEA®). These inspections allow PSP to main accreditation under CALEA standards.

We note that the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) operates two aircraft for law enforcement missions; however, as Mr. John Spencer, MHP, informed our staff on October 4, 2017, SAR operations are not the MHP’s primary mission, but fall under the purview of the county sheriff’s offices. We believe that all air operations could benefit from the safety improvements specified in these recommendations, and we urge the state of Montana to make the recommended safety improvements to all its air operations.

However, because these recommendations were specifically aimed at public operators who conduct helicopter SAR operations, Safety Recommendations A 14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED--RECONSIDERED.

We note that the state of Iowa does not conduct helicopter SAR operations; however, we believe that all air operations could benefit from the safety improvements specified in these recommendations. Accordingly, we urge the state of Iowa to make the safety improvements discussed in these recommendations to all its air operations. Because these recommendations were specifically aimed at public operators who conduct helicopter SAR operations, though, Safety Recommendations A 14-100 through -106 are classified CLOSED--RECONSIDERED.

From Keith D. Squires, Commissioner, Department of Public Safety: The Aero Bureau will plan on an outside audit of the SMS after full implementation and a sufficient period of working within that system for evaluation.

-From John W. Hickenlooper, Governor: We have enacted recommendation A-13- 21 through legislation, when we signed House Bill 14-1216 into law in 2014. This bill requires safety markings for certain towers over 50 feet in height that are located in unincorporated areas of the state, and has been incorporated into Colorado Revised Statutes (CRS) section 43-10-117.

Specifically, CRS 43-10- 117 requires: (2) Where the appearance of a tower is not otherwise governed by state or federal law, rule, or regulation, any tower over fifty feet in height that is located outside the boundaries of an incorporated city or town on land that is primarily rural or undeveloped or used for agricultural purposes must be marked and painted or otherwise constructed to be visible in clear air during daylight hours from a distance of not less than two thousand feet.

Towers must also comply with the following additional requirements: (a) A tower must be painted in equal alternating bands of aviation orange and white, beginning with orange at the top of the tower; (b) One marker ball must be attached to the top third of each outside guy wire; and (c) Guy wires must have a seven-foot- long safety sleeve at each anchor point that extends from the anchor point along each guy wire attached to the anchor point. (3) Any tower that was erected prior to August 6, 2014, must be marked as required by the provisions of this section within one year of August 6, 2014.

Any tower that is erected on or after August 6, 2014, must be marked as required by this section at the time it is erected. The Colorado Army National Guard operates helicopters that are used in search and rescue missions, and they report that compliance with all recommendations as outlined in your document of August 3, 2017, as it pertains to the operation of helicopters. Finally, the Colorado State Patrol currently implements recommendation A-14-101, using procedures and avionics that allow for up-to-date weather information and assistance with flight risk assessment decisions.

While they do not operate helicopters in search and rescue missions, they are considering implementing recommendations A-14-100, A-14-105, and A-14-106 following an independent and unrelated safety audit they are conducting. Once completed, we will incorporate regulations that are in compliance with the NTSB recommendation, at a minimum. Again, thank you for your correspondence regarding this issue. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my Office should you have any further questions.

Terry S. Miyauchi, Aviation Administrator, Arizona Department of Public Safety: The purpose of this letter is to respond to your safety recommendations letter addressed to Governor Doug Ducey, dated August 3, 2017. In that letter, NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13-21 (meteorological evaluation towers) andA-14-100 through 106 (search-and-rescue flight) were provided to the State of Arizona. The Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) conducts flights across the entire state of Arizona, to include areas where meteorological towers have been erected. Approximately 25% percent of all flights for AZDPS and the State are in support of search and rescue operations.

We value the goal of aviation safety as the number one priority for all of our aviation activity and your recommendations are well received. We offer the following specific responses to each of your NTSB recommendations:

The AZDPS last underwent a full external aviation safety audit in August of2014 by AIS Gallegher. AIS Gallegher is an aviation insurance underwriter and utilized the Public Safety Aviation Accreditation Commission (PSAAC) for the audit. AZDPS received high marks with no major discrepancies noted. Whereas the last audit was 3 years ago to date, it is important to point out the following external consultant and planned audit information:

This past year, the AZDPS contracted with the Delta P Company and specifically Dr. Dudley Crossen to provide external consultation in aeromedical, aerospace physiology and aviation human factor issues. The service provides ride-along observation and direct external feedback to the management. On-site visits are currently scheduled two times a year, with the next visit scheduled for the Fall of 2017. As a result of NTSB Recommendation A-14-106, AZDPS intends to have Delta P and specifically Dr. Crosson conduct a full external audit of the AZDPS SMS by year end, 2017.

It is additionally important to point out that the AZDPS is in process of preparing for application to full PSAAC accreditation in search-and-rescue, fire-fighting and law enforcement operations. The process will include a pre-audit and formal certification audit, both by external sources in the near future. If appropriate AZD PS will conduct external audits of the SMS minimally every three years.

-From Asa Hutchinson, Governor: Arkansas has been audited by an outside agency, and the state safety management system complies with NTSB recommendations.

-From Mike Tooley, Director, Montana Department of Transportation: The State of Montana appreciates the leadership your agency has provided to enhance and promote the safety of law enforcement public aircraft operations across the nation. The Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) operates a 1971 Bell OH-58A helicopter and a 1978 Cessna 182-RG airplane in its law enforcement mission, with a single officer responsible for all flying duties. Total flight hours are less than 100 hours per year.

The MHP flight department has considered the NTSB Safety Recommendations and has implemented them in the following manner:

No provisions are in place for an outside audit of the safety management system.

-From Michael C. Thompson, Commissioner, Oklahoma Department of Public Safety: This recommendation has not been met due to agency funding restrictions and limitations. Efforts by the department to maintain safety are currently ensured through internal review by command personnel and the training of personnel in the Air Support Standard Operating Procedures.

-From Tim McClung, Iowa DOT, Office of Aviation: Thank you for the NTSB’s August 3, 2017 letter to Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds regarding NTSB safety recommendations A-14-100 through -106. The letter indicates the recommendations were issued as a result of the investigation into an accident involving a Eurocopter AS350 B3 owned and operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety. Iowa does not own or operate helicopters for use in public safety efforts and therefore does not engage in Night Vision Goggle operations, off airport landings, or operations in mountainous areas.

Accordingly, the recommendations would not apply. This communication is intended to provide information needed to close the response status for Iowa on these recommendations. Please let me know if you need additional information.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the commonwealth of Virginia on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the commonwealth of Virginia on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 2 years ago.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106. We issued these recommendations to the state of Oklahoma on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 2 years ago.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of “Open—Await Response.”

For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106. We issued these recommendations to the state of North Dakota on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 2 years ago.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of New Mexico on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of New Mexico on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of New Hampshire on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of New Hampshire on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 2 years ago.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106. We issued these recommendations to the state of Montana on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue (SAR) flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 2 years ago.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of Missouri on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of Missouri on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of Mississippi on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of Mississippi on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the commonwealth of Massachusetts on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the commonwealth of Massachusetts on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of Maine on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of Maine on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of Louisiana on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of Louisiana on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106. We issued these recommendations to the commonwealth of Kentucky on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 2 years ago.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106. We issued these recommendations to the state of Iowa on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search and rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 2 years ago.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of Indiana on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of Indiana on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the District of Columbia on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the District of Columbia on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of Connecticut on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of Connecticut on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of Colorado on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of Colorado on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of California on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of California on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of Arkansas on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of Arkansas on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of Arizona on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of Arizona on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of Wisconsin on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of Wisconsin on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of Tennessee on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of Tennessee on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of South Carolina on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of South Carolina on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of South Dakota on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of South Dakota on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of “Open—Await Response.”

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the commonwealth of Pennsylvania on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the commonwealth of Pennsylvania on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of Oregon on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people. We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of Oregon on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of “Open—Await Response.” For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of New York on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of New York on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of “Open—Await Response.”

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of Nevada on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of Nevada on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

This letter addresses NTSB Safety Recommendations A-13 21 and A-14-100 through -106. We issued A-13-21 to the state of West Virginia on May 15, 2013, as a result of our investigations of three accidents in which airplanes inadvertently collided with meteorological evaluation towers, fatally injuring four people.

We issued A-14-100 through -106 to the state of West Virginia on November 24, 2014, as a result of our investigation of the March 30, 2013, accident in which a Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter, operated by the Alaska Department of Public Safety, impacted terrain while maneuvering during a search-and-rescue flight near Talkeetna, Alaska.

We are interested in knowing whether and how our recommendations are implemented, both to ensure that the traveling public is provided the highest level of safety and to identify creative solutions that might be shared with others, and we normally expect actions to address our recommendations to be completed within 3 to 5 years. We have yet to hear from you regarding your progress toward addressing these recommendations, which were issued more than 4 and 2 years ago, respectively.

We would appreciate receiving a response within 90 days indicating any actions you have taken or plan to take to implement these recommendations; until then, these recommendations will retain their current classification of OPEN—AWAIT RESPONSE.

For additional background information about Safety Recommendation A-13-21, please refer to our May 15, 2013, recommendation transmittal letter. For additional background information about Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through -106, please refer to pages 54 through 63 of our Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter accident report.

We note that you intend to re-examine this recommendation once your state’s budget has been approved. In the meantime, pending completion of the recommended action, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 remains classified OPEN--ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

-From Leo P. Schmitz, Director, Illinois State Police: Response: The ISP AOB has recommended the ISP participate in the Airborne Law Enforcement Association (ALEA) Accreditation program. This accreditation program is "designed to objectively evaluate and certify a law enforcement air unit's overall compliance with safety and efficiency standards as developed and adopted by the ALEA." This program provides audits every three years.

Update: Currently, the state of Illinois does not have a budget in place. Without a budget, the Air Operations program cannot complete the necessary purchases to respond to A-14-106. The recommendation will be re-examined when a budget is approved.

We note that you have not been able to address these recommendations because, as of the date of your letter, your state’s budget had not yet been approved. However, we are encouraged to learn that, once this issue has been resolved, the ISP intends to re-examine these recommendations. In the meantime, pending our receipt of future updates and completion of the recommended action, Safety Recommendations A 14-103 and A-14-105 and -106 remain classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We are encouraged to learn that DPS is in the process of applying for ALEA accreditation, which includes an on-site visit and review of the department’s policies, procedures, and operations (including those related to SMS). Pending our receipt of future updates regarding the department’s progress in obtaining this accreditation, Safety Recommendation A 14 106 remains classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

-From Leo P. Schmitz, Director, Illinois State Police: Response: The ISP AOB has recommended the ISP participate in the Airborne Law Enforcement Association (ALEA) Accreditation program. This accreditation program is "designed to objectively evaluate and certify a law enforcement air unit's overall compliance with safety and efficiency standards as developed and adopted by the ALEA." This program provides audits every three years.

Update: Currently, the state of Illinois does not have a budget in place. Without a budget, the Air Operations program cannot complete the necessary purchases to respond to A-14-106. This safety recommendation will be re-examined when a budget is approved.

You previously informed us that the ISP was reviewing guidance on developing and implementing an SMS and was considering becoming accredited by the Airborne Law Enforcement Association. We note, however, that these plans have also been delayed until after the ISP has an approved budget. Accordingly, pending our receipt of future updates and completion of the recommended actions, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 remain classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

-From Steven C. McCraw, Director, Texas Department of Public Safety: AOD currently meets the following SMS Toolkit requirements as suggested by ALEA-C to include; a safety committee that meets quarterly (est. 2008), a crew rest policy (est. 1993), Emergency Response Plan (est. 2008), issuance and requirement of crewmembers to wear protective equipment (est. 1995), suggested safety documents, safety library, and the recently implemented Flight Risk Assessment Tool. In January, 2016, AOD added to the SMS a Hazard Tracking Form to log risk items identified through gap analysis, safety surveys, Hazard Identification: Reports, or from other avenues reported to the safety team and administrators.

This month, AOD has paid the initial application fee and formally applied for ALEA-C Accreditation as the Texas DPS Office of General Counsel works to formalize the contractual agreement. We are looking forward to this worthwhile endeavor.

We note that the MSP Aviation Unit has implemented a formal SMS program, based on the Airborne Law Enforcement Association’s Safety Management System Toolkit, and that the program is reviewed annually by your local FAA Flight Standards District Office. These actions satisfy Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106, which are classified CLOSED—ACCEPTABLE ACTION.

-From Leo P. Schmitz, Director, Illinois State Police: Currently, the State of Illinois does not have a budget in place. Without a budget, the Air Operations program cannot complete the necessary purchases to respond to A-14-106. This safety recommendation will be re-examined when a budget is approved.

You previously informed us that, although the ISP has incorporated some safety management processes, it does not currently have a formal SMS program in place. We are encouraged to learn that the ISP is reviewing guidance on developing and implementing an SMS and is considering becoming accredited by the Airborne Law Enforcement Association. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding the department’s progress in implementing an SMS and, once implemented, the regular auditing of the program, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 remain classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

-From Colonel Kriste Kibbey Etue, Director, State of Michigan, Department of State Police: This letter is in response to your correspondence dated September 16, 2015, to Governor Rick Snyder detailing the safety recommendations of your department. The two action items, A-16-105 and A-16-106, indicate that the Michigan State Police (MSP) Aviation Unit does not have a formal Safety Management System (SMS),• and tt is not reviewed externally every three years. Both recommendations are classified "Open-Acceptable Response." This is to advise that the MSP Aviation Unit does have a formal SMS in place and it is reviewed by the Federal Aviation Administration annually.

The Aviation Unit's SMS was carefully developed by closely following the Airborne Law Enforcement Association (ALEA) standards. It contains the following key components listed in the SMS Toolkit provided by ALEA. • A Safety Policy letter issued, and authorized by the Director of the State Police • The Safety Section of the units operations manual includes o Purpose of the Safety Program o Safety duties of all members of the unit o Safety Officer duties o Hazard reporting o Hazard review o Accident and incident investigation o Safety training o Safety equipment o Safety procedures o Safety meetings o Pre-Accident plan

The Aviation unit conducts an annual internal review of our SMS, as well as, an external program review by the Flight Standards District Office of the Federal Aviation Administration.

We note that the WSP’s Aviation Section does not conduct SAR operations; however, we believe that all air operations could benefit from the safety improvements specified in these recommendations. Because these recommendations were specifically aimed at public operators who conduct SAR operations, however, Safety Recommendations A 14-100, -101 and -103 through -106 are classified CLOSED—RECONSIDERED.

We note that, although the MSP Aviation Unit has a safety program that incorporates some safety management processes, it does not have a formal SMS program. We point out that the Airborne Law Enforcement Association has developed the Safety Management System Toolkit to help law enforcement agencies develop an SMS designed to fit the size, nature, and complexity of their organizations. This aid can be downloaded free of charge at http://www.alea.org/downloads/safety/SMS-Toolkit.pdf. We encourage the MSP to review this guidance and to develop a formal SMS program that is appropriate for the state of Michigan.

Pending our receipt of future updates regarding MSP’s progress in implementing an SMS and, once implemented, the regular auditing of the program, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and 106 remain classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

-From Greg Abbott, Governor: Thank you for your letter addressed to former Governor Rick Perry regarding NTSB Safety Recommendations A-14-100 through 106. I am sharing your letter with the Texas Department of Transportation's Aviation Division, which will coordinate with my office in discussing the flight safety issues you addressed. Please let me know if I can assist you in the future.

We are pleased to learn that the DPS is currently undergoing accreditation by the Airborne Law Enforcement Association (ALEA). We note, however, that, although the DPS has a safety program that incorporates some safety management processes, the department does not have a formal SMS program in place. We point out that the ALEA has developed its SMS Toolkit to help law enforcement agencies develop an SMS designed to fit the size, nature, and complexity of their organizations. This aid can be downloaded free of charge at http://www.alea.org/downloads/safety/SMS-Toolkit.pdf.

We encourage the DPS to review this guidance and to develop a formal SMS program that is appropriate for the state of Texas. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding the department’s progress in implementing an SMS and, once implemented, the regular auditing of the program, Safety Recommendations A 14 105 and 106 remain classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

-From Leo P. Schmitz, Director, Illinois State Police: Response: The JSP is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). The AOB provides information under the "Specialized Vehicle Training" and "Search and Rescue" provisions of the CALEA standards. This review occurs every three years, with the next evaluation scheduled in 2016.

Update: The ISP AOB has recommended the ISP participate in the ALEA Accreditation program. This accreditation program is "designed to objectively evaluate and certify a law enforcement air unit's overall compliance with safety and efficiency standards as developed and adopted by the ALEA." This program provides audits every three years.

-From Lieutenant D. Jim Nobach: Reference our phone conversation on Monday, July 27, 2015 concerning follow-up information regarding the A-14-100 questions, the Washington State Patrol (WSP) Aviation Section does not actively engage in Search and Rescue operations. Therefore, the follow-up information previously requested is no longer required of the WSP. At this time we will consider all A-14-100-106 related requests of WSP satisfied.

If you have any additional questions, please contact the Washington State Patrol Aviation Section.

We are encouraged to learn that the MSP’s SQMS will include an independent audit on a regular basis. Pending implementation of an SQMS that includes the recommended audits, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

-From Colonel Kriste Kibbey Etue, Director, Michigan State Police: • As detailed in the correspondence dated January 23, 2015, the MSP Aviation Unit does have a SMS compliant safety program that is reviewed annually by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). • The Aviation Unit Operations Manual Chapter 6 details the unit safety program. Included in this SMS compliant safety program is Safety Officers duties and responsibilities, hazard reporting procedures, safety training requirements, accident investigation procedures, and a pre-accident plan. 1 have published a memorandum as the Director detailing my support and guidance for the Aviation Unit safety program.

The Aviation Unit safety program along with many other aspects of the unit's operation is review annually by the Grand Rapids Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) of the FAA.

We note that the NJSP regularly reviews and evaluates its SMS; however, to ensure the program’s effectiveness, improvement, and success, we believe that the NJSP should arrange for an independent audit on a regular basis. Therefore, we encourage the NJSP to take the recommended action. Pending implementation of a regular, independent audit of the SMS, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

-From Steven C. McCraw, Director: Aircraft Operations has initiated the requisition process to secure funding for the accreditation through the Airborne Law Enforcement Association. Aircraft Operations is currently performing the "Self-Assessment" portion of the accreditation process required by ALEA while awaiting approval for the $9,500 requisition. The accreditation project is planned to be completed by Spring of2016 and as recommended by the NTSB, we plan to renew every 3 years.

We note that the PRPD has incorporated some safety management processes, but that it does not currently have a formal SMS program in place. We point out that the International Helicopter Safety Team has developed the Safety Management System Toolkit to aid in the development of such a program. This aid can be downloaded free of charge at http://ihst.org/Portals/54/SMS-Toolkit.pdf. Another resource is the FAA’s AC 120 92A, Safety Management Systems for Aviation Service Providers. We encourage the PRPD to review this guidance and to develop a formal SMS program that is appropriate for its size.

Pending our receipt of future updates regarding the department’s progress in implementing an SMS and, once implemented, the regular auditing of the program, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 are classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that SHP is in the process of arranging for regular audits of its SMS. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding SHP’s progress, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that the MSP has incorporated some safety management processes and is revising its operations manual to incorporate a formal SMS program, as recommended. We also note that, once a formal SMS program is in place, the MSP intends to have audits conducted on a regular basis by an outside organization. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding the MSP’s progress in implementing an SMS and, once implemented, the regular auditing of the program, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 are classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that the ISP has incorporated some safety management processes, but that it does not currently have a formal SMS program in place. We point out that the International Helicopter Safety Team has developed the Safety Management System Toolkit to aid in the development of such a program. This aid can be downloaded free of charge at http://ihst.org/Portals/54/SMS-Toolkit.pdf. Another resource is the FAA’s AC 120 92A, Safety Management Systems for Aviation Service Providers. We encourage the ISP to review this guidance and to develop a formal SMS program that is appropriate for its size.

Pending our receipt of future updates regarding the department’s progress in implementing an SMS and, once implemented, the regular auditing of the program, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 are classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We are pleased to learn that you are working to qualify for accreditation by the ALEA and that your SMS will be audited on a recurring basis once you are accredited. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding your progress and completion of the recommended action, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that WSP has incorporated some safety management processes and that its efforts to implement a formal SMS program are ongoing. We also note that, once a formal SMS program is in place, WSP intends to have audits conducted regularly by an outside organization. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding WSP’s progress in implementing an SMS and, once implemented, the regular auditing of the program, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 are classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that the MSP does not currently have an SMS program but is researching such programs with the intention of implementing one. We point out that the International Helicopter Safety Team and the Airborne Law Enforcement Association have each developed SMS toolkits to help operators develop an SMS designed to fit the size, nature, and complexity of their organizations. These aids can be downloaded free of charge at http://ihst.org/Portals/54/SMS-Toolkit.pdf and http://www.alea.org/downloads/safety/SMS-Toolkit.pdf, respectively. Another resource that the MSP may find helpful is the FAA’s AC 120 92A, Safety Management Systems for Aviation Service Providers.

We encourage the MSP to review this guidance and to develop a basic, formal, and appropriate SMS program that includes the recommended elements. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding MSP progress to implement an SMS and, once implemented, the regular auditing of the program, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and 106 are classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that you do not currently have an SMS program and that you believe individual operators should be allowed to tailor an SMS program to their own operations. We agree; however, we believe that every SMS should include the basic elements listed in Safety Recommendation A 14-105, at a minimum. We also believe that regular, ongoing reviews are vital to ensuring the program’s effectiveness, improvement, and success. We point out that the International Helicopter Safety Team and the Airborne Law Enforcement Association have each developed SMS toolkits to help operators develop an SMS designed to fit the size, nature, and complexity of their organizations.

These aids can be downloaded free of charge at http://ihst.org/Portals/54/SMS-Toolkit.pdf and http://www.alea.org/downloads/safety/SMS-Toolkit.pdf, respectively. Another resource you may find helpful is the FAA’s AC 120 92A, Safety Management Systems for Aviation Service Providers. We encourage you to review this guidance and to develop a basic, formal SMS program that is appropriate for the state of Kansas and that includes the recommended elements. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding your progress to implement an SMS and, once implemented, the regular auditing of the program, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 are classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that, once the FWC has implemented its SMS, it plans to arrange for the recommended recurring audit. Pending completion of this action, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

Although it is unclear whether ALEA has a formal SMS program in place (as discussed above), we are encouraged to learn that the agency is looking into having audits conducted on a regular basis by an outside organization. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding the agency’s progress and completion of the recommended action, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that, although you have incorporated some safety management processes and are considering becoming accredited by the Airborne Law Enforcement Association (ALEA), you do not currently have a formal SMS program. We point out that the International Helicopter Safety Team and ALEA have each developed SMS toolkits to help operators develop an SMS designed to fit the size, nature, and complexity of their organizations. These aids can be downloaded free of charge at http://ihst.org/Portals/54/SMS-Toolkit.pdf and http://www.alea.org/downloads/safety/SMS-Toolkit.pdf, respectively.

Another resource you may find helpful is the FAA’s AC 120 92A, Safety Management Systems for Aviation Service Providers. We encourage you to review this guidance and to develop a formal SMS program that is appropriate for the state of Texas. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding your progress to implement an SMS and, once implemented, the regular auditing of the program, Safety Recommendations A-14-105 and -106 are classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that, once your SMS is fully developed and operational, you will arrange for an outside organization to audit it every 3 years, as recommended. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding your progress, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

From Michael W. DeRuggiero, Safety Management Officer, Aviation Command, Maryland State Police: MSPAC's SQMS is being designed to utilize daily safety inspections, monthly and/or quarterly safety audits, safety/hazard reports and incident/accident reports to analyze conditions and to make changes in equipment, MSP AC policy and processes or training to help mitigate or eliminate risks. In an effort to comply with NTSB recommendation A-14-106, MSPAC's SQMS will be amended to include an external audit of MSPAC's SQMS at least every 3 years by an outside organization.

In closing, as the MSP AC continues to pursue FAA certification to conduct all air ambulance flight operations and patient transports under Title 14, CFR 135, it is the MSPAC's intention to make every attempt to fully comply with each and every NTSB recommendation issued specifically to the MSP AC, Public and/or Commercial HEMS Operators.

We note that, once your SMS is fully developed and operational, you will arrange for an outside organization to conduct audits of your SMS every 3 years, as recommended. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding your progress, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

We note that you are making arrangements for an outside organization to conduct audits of your SMS every 3 years, as recommended. Pending our receipt of future updates regarding your progress, Safety Recommendation A-14-106 is classified OPEN—ACCEPTABLE RESPONSE.

-From Joseph R. Fuentes, Colonel, Superintendent: The New Jersey State Police Aviation Bureau incorporates the SMS as part of our operations. Understanding the importance, we continually review and evaluate our SMS. We utilize best practices when identifying the need to implement changes. Any identified changes are shared with our pilots and training is updated to meet these modifications.

-From Leo P. Schmitz, Director, Illinois State Police: The ISP is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation tor Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). The AOB provides information under the "Specialized Vehicle Training" and "Search and Rescue" provisions of the CALEA standards. This review occurs every three years, with the next evaluation scheduled in 2016.

-From Jose L. Caldero Lopez, P.R.P.D. Superintendent, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico: The Puerto Rico Police Department is determined to create an Evaluation Committee, which will be responsible for analyzing the missions realized in all operational aspects and that of the Federal Aviation Administration. These are comprised of; a- Personnel of the Puerto Rico Aerial National Guard b- Puerto Rico Natural Resources Department c- The Puerto Rico Police Department

-From Lieutenant Jim Nobach, Washington State Patrol (WSP) Aviation Chief Pilot: The WSP has essential components of a Safety Management System (SMS) and is incorporating the “four pillars of safety management” developed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The WSP began the process of incorporating SMS into its aviation program in 2011. During the last three years we have continued to train personnel on SMS process and implement procedure changes that incorporate the systems approach. Our next goal is to achieve International Standards for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO) certification by the end of 2018.

We are working with a recognized industry professional organization that offers a comprehensive package of SMS services and tools that will lead us through the necessary changes to achieve this goal and further the effectiveness of our SMS.

Additionally, as part of the Northwest Regional Aviation Association, the WSP will have a Regional Aerial Law Enforcement Association partner conduct a SMS audit every three years. The partner follows ALEA guidelines and best practices. Additionally, internal audits are conducted annually by the WSP Chief Pilot and Air Operations/Safety Officer. WSP conducts operations under the Washington State LEAN initiative. The LEAN initiative promotes formulating partnerships with outside organizations.

For instance, rather than the State of Washington paying to have an outside vendor conduct an outside audit, have a partnership with various organizations with similar equipment and size conduct the audit. This will reduce cost and provide an opportunity for various aerial law enforcement units to find best practices.

-From J. Spencer Collier, Secretary, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency: Although ALEA Aviation has incorporated outside training and recommendations from several other agencies, there has not been an official audit from an outside agency specifically designed for Safety Recommendation A-14-105. In accordance with NTSB guidelines, ALEA Aviation will be pursuing the implementation of this recommendation in the near future.

-From William Grey, Colonel, Commanding, North Carolina Department of Public Safety, State Highway Patrol: 1. We currently have no process in place to have an audit of our Safety Management System every three years by an outside organization but are working towards implementing for outside audits. 2. The designated Safety Officer for Aircraft Operations has been assigned to update the SMS with best known industry standards. Our Safety Officer recently attended an Airborne Law Enforcement Association regional safety conference. He solicited feedback from other law enforcement aviation agencies to determine how those agencies will be complying with this recommendation.

-From Colonel Matthew C. Langer, Chief, Minnesota State Patrol: Once a formalized safety management system as described in A-14-105 is in place, audits will be conducted every three years.

-From Mark A. Bruce, Colonel, Superintendent, Kansas Highway Patrol: Recently we received a copy of the NTSB's proposed safety recommendations (attached) from your office. We have reviewed them and assessed the impact to KHP aircraft operations. We anticipate the impact to be similar in nature to other law enforcement aircraft operations within the state of Kansas. Below is our assessment and response to those specific NTSB safety recommendations.

We appreciate the spirit and nature of the recent recommendations (A-14-100 through -106) provided by the NTSB in their letter dated November 24, 2014. We have not taken the recommendations lightly and have reviewed them for their well-intentioned benefits. Part of our review has included the referenced accident involving the Alaska Department of Public Safety Eurocopter AS350 B3 helicopter in March of 2013.

Keeping the purpose of the recommendations in mind, as well as our already high commitment to safety, we must mention that a considerable obstacle to implementation of several of the proposed measures is cost. Many states and their government agencies have fiscal challenges, and the Kansas Highway Patrol is no exception. While a price cannot be put on a life, we have a responsibility to the public we serve with the very nature of the services we provide, as well as to the employees we request to carry out those services.

In return for our responses, we would very much appreciate reciprocation by being provided the responses of other agencies from other states as well. Their opinions and recommendations could be quite valuable. This would also encourage an open dialogue without unintentionally suppressing potentially innovative methods to pursue best practices in a more cost effective manner.

Obviously, the KHP aircraft unit constantly pursues high standards. However, the KHP does not support external audits that are conducted by private sector companies for a fee. Non-compliance or issues that they find are highly subjective and can be interpreted in many ways. KHP aircraft operations, as with most law enforcement aircraft operations, holds to a high self-imposed standard and is best positioned to daily assess and enforce compliance to established protocols. Internal agency self-audits based on SMS protocol would allow agencies to address issues in a more objective and realistic manner.

This would considerably reduce costs to the taxpayer as well as increasing morale, pride and buy-in of the unit members which is critical in a law enforcement team.

-From Colonel Curtis Brown, Director, Division of Law Enforcement, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission: Upon completion of the SMS program, the FWC aviation unit will request both an internal and external audit. The external audit will be conducted by other local law enforcement aviation members and through ALEA. FWC will also implement the recommendation for an external audit every three years.

-From Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue, Director, Michigan State Police and Kirk T. Steudle, Director, Michigan Department of Transportation: • The MSP Aviation Unit operations manual is reviewed by the Federal Aviation Administration Flight Standards District Office in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on an annual basis. The Aviation Unit operations manual will be revised to incorporate all sections impacting flight safety listed in the MSP's response to A-14-105 into one section and formally identified as the "Safety Management System" for ease in referencing policies impacting flight safety and to comply with the intent of safety recommendation A-14-105.

Once this revision is completed, MSP will request a complete audit of the operations manual by the ALEA.

• An initial independent GAP analysis has been completed and SMS development is moving forward at the MOOT Aero. Regular audits at three years or less intervals will be conducted.

-From Steven C. McCraw, Director, Texas Department of Public Safety: The Airborne Law Enforcement Association has had an accreditation board for several years. Assistant Chief Pilot Tim Ochsner was recently appointed to the ALEA Accreditation Board. AOD is strongly considering making an application to ALEA to start the accreditation process.

-From Cari R. Maines, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Office of the Superintendent: The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Aviation Section was started in 1947 with the approval of Senate Bill 221. The following year we made the purchase of one fixed wing bonanza. The original mission intent was for disaster relief, air searches, transportation, aerial photography, and errands of mercy. We had one aircraft and one pilot.

Today, 67 years later, we have 16 pilots, 1 office assistant, and 16 aircraft. Annually, we log around 7,000 flight hours. Our fleet includes:

• 2 Cessna 172R Skyhawk fixed wing airplanes • 2 Cessna 182S Skylane fixed wing airplanes • 9 Cessna 182T Skylane fixed wing airplanes • 1 Cessna 208B Caravan fixed wing airplane • 2 American Eurocopter AS350B2 helicopters

Our primary mission is aerial traffic enforcement, and it comprises approximately 85% of our flight time. The remaining flight time is spent conducting other missions, including:

• Searches (stranded motorists, downed aircraft, lost children, elderly walkaways, drowning victims, manhunts, etc.) • Surveillance (criminal interdiction, reconnaissance) • Photo flights (crashes, evidentiary, reconnaissance) • Drug interdiction flights including marijuana eradication • Emergency transportation (personnel, blood relays) • Special response team operations • Training

Since our inception, we have suffered three crashes. Two of those were fatal fixed wing crashes (1970 & 1976) and the other was a minor injury helicopter crash in 1993. Since 1976, we have accumulated over 250,000 hours of accident free fixed wing flight.

Our operations are a bit unique compared to most state agencies. We only use personnel assigned to the Aviation Section as part of our flight crew. Every Trooper / Pilot has spent time in the field as a State Trooper. State Troopers applying for a Trooper/Pilot position must possess a Private Pilot’s License (Airplane – Single Engine Land) with an Instrument Rating prior to appointment. After spending some time in the Section, some of our pilots are then trained as Tactical Flight Officers. Our helicopter pilots are also chosen from among the Section’s fixed wing pilots.

We make a concerted effort to make safety our highest priority. We believe that “If it’s predictable, it’s preventable.”

-From Gary Folger, Commissioner, Department of Public Safety: Alaska Department of Public Safety is committed to continually improve the SMS system by developing internal functionality that is customized to the diverse missions that Alaska DPS encounters. Working with the vendor of the software, we will devise benchmarks that will enable us to track and monitor progress in the coming years. We will explore external audit options for this program as we get closer to the three year mark.

-From Colonel Mark McDonough, Commissioner, Department of Public Safety: The Division will have used the SMS program for three years in January 2015. The Division is in the process of locating a private vendor to conduct a Safety Management System audit after January of 2015.

-From Colonel Nathaniel McQueen, Jr., Superintendent, Delaware Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Division of State Police: The Delaware State Police Aviation Section plans to conduct ALEA Accreditation during 2015. The accreditation process will include an audit of the Safety Management System and will occur on a recurring or re-accreditation basis. In addition, the section is already utilizing AIG Aerospace Insurance (our insurance provider) to provide outside audits of the sections policies, procedures, safety, operations, maintenance, and facilities on a recurring basis.