Swimming Lessons For A Chopper Crew           by Troy Rudy

First published in Blue Line, Canada's National Law Enforcement
Magazine, June-July 2004

…. "I gasped for one last breath of air mere seconds before the helicopter turned upside down and crashed into the cold water.  In the darkness I fumbled for the latch to open the door as I hung suspended upside down from my seatbelt." ….

True Underwater Egress Story       by Mark Batten

….."The aircraft was just becoming airborne after a normal take-off run when it began to roll to the right.  I was unable to counteract the roll, and the right wing tip struck the water, causing us to strike the water nose-first and eventually come to rest in an inverted floating position.  I was amazed how quickly I found myself underwater struggling to escape."…..

Can You Survive In The Water?    by Dave Fitzpatrick

First published in The Aviation News & Trader, April 2000

…. "This course was very enjoyable and informative and has changed my outlook on how I will conduct future flights over water.  The most important thing that I learned was how uninformed most of us are about this subject and how poorly prepared we are to face the possibility of water
escape and survival." …..

Do You Know How To Exit A Plane Underwater?              by Tina Couillard

First published in TimberWest News February 21, 2001

…. "The escape training is designed to train passengers in underwater egress in the event of an aircraft sinking or rolling upside-down", says Tina. ….

Personal Comments

….. "I know personally I have always thought, how am I going to get out of this thing if it crashes.  Now I feel more confident that I will have a chance' …..