Health ministry temporarily grounds Flying Doctor Service in Sarawak

A fatal helicopter crash in Sarawak has prompted the temporary grounding of the Flying Doctor Service (FDS) in the region. Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad announced the decision on Tuesday following the incident that claimed five lives, including four healthcare workers. The BO-105 helicopter involved in the crash was operating a FDS flight near the Long Lellang short take-off and landing airport (STOLport).

The victims comprised a medical officer, a medical assistant, and two nurses. Despite the crash, Dzulkefly stated that the FDS remains essential for providing healthcare coverage in the country's interior regions. Layang Layang Aerospace, the operator of the crashed helicopter, had already voluntarily grounded all its BO-105 helicopters and aircraft equipped with Rolls-Royce 250 engines following the incident.

Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia CEO Norazman Mahmud clarified that the grounding was a precautionary measure initiated by the operator, not due to an engine or technical defect. The health minister plans to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the FDS in Sarawak, evaluating aspects such as contract matters, safety operations, and governance to ensure improvements in future services.

The ministry will also review access methods, including alternative transportation options, to ensure practical and safer healthcare delivery to remote communities in Sarawak.