Sarawak helicopter crash: Review needed for rescue, firefighting operations at Long Lellang

On September 8, a Bo-105 helicopter engaged in a scheduled Flying Doctor Service flight crashed at the Long Lellang STOLport in Sarawak. Rela personnel, along with residents from nearby villages, responded to the incident by rushing to the scene with portable fire extinguishers. Despite their efforts, which were bolstered by additional personnel arriving at the scene, the fire continued to burn for several hours, even after they exhausted all 12 dry powder extinguishers available at the terminal.

The Air Accidents Investigation Bureau (AAIB) conducted a preliminary report and noted that the Rela personnel involved in the rescue and firefighting operations were not equipped with appropriate firefighting personal protective equipment (PPE). The report stated that, although firefighting PPE was available at the STOLport, some equipment, particularly the protective clothing, showed visible signs of deterioration and damage after the crash.

The AAIB called for a review of rescue and firefighting arrangements at the Long Lellang STOLport. The review should aim to ensure that auxiliary personnel were adequately trained and equipped, and that firefighting equipment and PPE were properly maintained and serviceable. The helicopter, which was conducting its mission near the runway, tragically resulted in the deaths of the pilot and four medical personnel on board.