KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Volunteers Corps Department (Rela) personnel based at the Long Lellang STOLport rushed into action to battle the flames when the Bo-105 helicopter crashed there on Sept 8.
They were joined by people from nearby villages, but despite their best efforts, the fire continued to blaze for several hours, even after completely using up all their fire extinguishers.
The Air Accidents Investigation Bureau (AAIB), however, noted that the Rela personnel were not wearing firefighting personal protective equipment (PPEs).
In its preliminary report, the bureau said Rela personnel who were on duty at the STOLport, approached the crash site carrying portable fire extinguishers.
"Several villagers subsequently joined the effort to put out the fire and assist the occupants, with additional personnel arriving minutes later to support the emergency response and rescue operation.
"However, the fire continued to burn for several hours despite efforts to extinguish it using all 12 dry powder fire extinguishers available at the airstrip's terminal," it said.
It added that the equipment comprised five 50kg extinguishers and seven 9kg units.
"Although firefighting PPE was available at the STOLport, an examination after the crash found visible deterioration and damage to some equipment, particularly the protective clothing.
"Rescue and firefighting duties at the airstrip had been assigned to Aviation Security (Avsec) Rela personnel acting as auxiliary rescue and firefighting personnel. However, no dedicated rescue and firefighting personnel were stationed at the STOLport," it said.
As part of its immediate safety action recommendations, the AAIB called on the aerodrome operator to review rescue and firefighting arrangements at its STOLports.
The review should ensure auxiliary personnel were appropriately trained and equipped, and that firefighting equipment and PPE were properly maintained and serviceable.
The helicopter, which was conducting a scheduled Flying Doctor Service flight, just short of the runway at Long Lellang STOLport, killing the pilot and four medical personnel on board.
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