A HELICOPTER crash task force was launched today in the wake of last week’s Super Puma tragedy.

The Helicopter Accident Issues Task Group includes senior managers from employers of the men lost in the Super Puma crash.

Union bosses welcomed the move – but said they also should have been part of the task force.

It comes as investigations continue into what caused the crash, one week ago today.

Bob Keiller, chief executive of PSN – which was rocked by the death of employee James Costello – said it was important to learn lessons.

Mr Keiller said: “We feel a need to come together as an industry in the aftermath of last week’s appalling loss of life to review, discuss and, if necessary, take action.”

The Helicopter Accident Issues Task Group will also include members of Oil and Gas UK’s Board.

The group is to concentrate on matters arising from the Super Puma crash and from other helicopter accidents.

It will also help bring in any recommendations from the Air Accident Investigation Branch, when the latest inquiry is complete.

But John Taylor, regional officer for T&G Unite union, said: “Although I welcome the creation of the task group it is a disgraceful decision to exclude the voice of trade unions from this group.

“This closed-door approach that excludes the independent voice of the offshore workforce will do little to inspire confidence.

“I can only hope that common sense prevails and Oil and Gas UK come to their senses so that all sides of industry can work together.”

groberts@ajl.co.uk.