Jean Langan

I am Ian Michael Arrow for The County of Devon, Plymouth and Torbay

On 15 March 2022 I commenced an investigation into the death of Jean LANGAN. The investigation concluded at the end of the inquest.  The conclusion of the inquest was Accident 1a  Head Injury 1b 1c II

On 4th March 2022 Jean Langan attended Derriford Hospital with her niece for an appointment.  As they were returning to their car which was parked in an unrestricted public car park, Car Park,B, a landing helicopter’s downwash caused Jean to fall backwards and strike her head on the ground. She suffered a serious head injury which caused her to lose consciousness. Jean was taken into Hospital for treatment but sadly died shortly after. At the time of her fall Jean was not restricted from the area. The circumstances are particularly set out in the AAIB report 2/2023 Aircraft G-MCGY 4 March

During the course of the inquest the evidence revealed matters giving rise to concern. In my opinion there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken. In the circumstances it is my statutory duty to report to you. Helicopters should land safely at Hospital Helicopter Landing sites without endangering those on the ground in the vicinity of the landing site. The MATTERS OF CONCERN are as follows. There was identified the need for a real time data base of Hospital Helicopter Landing sites to ensure the safe landing of helicopters. There was identified a need to ascertain the contact details of the relevant manager of each Helicoptor landing site at all Hospital Trusts which receive helicopters. More particularly set out by the representative for the Air Service Operator by letter of the 6th of December 2024 reciting a request of 22 November 2024.

In my opinion action should be taken to prevent future deaths and I believe you have the power to take such action.