The Regional Express dispatch procedures and training did not explain the appearance, function and importance of the propeller straps or orientation of propeller blades. This provided airport services officers limited guidance on how the propellor strap was used and how to identify it had been removed.
Proactive action taken by Regional Express to update its training material has addressed the identified safety issue
Regional Express has updated its receipt and dispatch training for airport services officers (ASOs), with the updated training providing images of the propeller strap and strap extensions fitted to a Saab 340. The updated training states that ground staff must directly check the propeller straps prior to signalling engine start clearances, and also explains that the propeller orientation (in dressed or undressed position) may be used as a supplementary check to indicate if the propeller strap has been removed. Regional Express has also disseminated an Airport Advisory with these images and information.
