Original Message

Fire Extinguisher covers have caused far more damage to helicopters than extinguishers have prevented.

We continue to have this same problem, but not learn from it.

AMC had an issue in the last few years where an extinguisher cover FOD'd a tail rotor and drive, no system change regarding removing  covers/securing them.

Rocky Mountain Helicopters in Palmer, MA; BK117 reutned to base, roll away extinguisher vendor applied cover while crew was away, upon hover to land, cover lifted and was injested into tail rotor. 400 thousand dollars in damage. Resident Physician in back saw the cover starting to lift and get loose, but said nothing.

Sounds like a new standard needs to include no covers, or a much more robust attachment system.

Flame on