Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem
Aircraft; Human Factors
After leaving a scene with patient on board in cruise flight approximately 5 to 10 minutes from destination the left rear door slid open; this was reported by the nurse. The Pilot immediately slowed down and started a descent to land so that the door could be secured. The nurse then closed the door a few seconds after the door had slid open; no debris was loose nor did anything leave the aircraft. Upon closing the door the pilot flew to the nearest suitable landing area (which was the hospital) the aircraft was shut down and the patient was successfully offloaded. The pilot conducted a thorough walk around inspection and inspection of the door; hinges and track and associated hardware. There was absolutely no indication of damage of any kind. Upon a thorough debrief with the crew; the nurse confirmed that the door handle was down and secured when the door slid open. The nurse also confirmed that prior to lifting he as well as the pilot visually confirmed that the door handle was down and secured indicating that the door was locked.The Pilot tried to recreate the condition that caused the door to come open. The pilot noted that the door handle could be closed and secured; but the upper latch pin would not seat properly (the door would be slightly ajar). And with a sufficient amount of pressure the door would slide open.This was in fact pilot error due to the fact the pilot did not ensure the door was sealed completely around the frame. Other conditions that lead to the door coming open were a significant crosswind of approximately 30 knots.After a thorough inspection and debrief the pilot flew the aircraft to the airport for further inspection by maintenance; which concluded no damage was sustained.Corrective actions. During the debrief with the [chief pilot]; the pilot was told that he should not have left the helipad without consulting the mechanic first. This will be discussed with the other pilots at the base and should also be shared with all pilots to dispel any misconceptions procedures if a door comes open in flight.The pilot will take extra precautions and take an extra 15 seconds to ensure all the doors are sealed about their frames and provide sufficient pressure on doors and cowlings to ensure its security and not take for granted that just because the latch is closed it does not ensure the cowling or door is actually secure or ready for flight conditions.
EC-130 Captain reported the left rear door came open in flight when it was not properly checked before departure.