The helicopter pilots involved in the death at Derriford Hospital were experienced

The pilots who flew a helicopter involved in the death of a woman at a Devon hospital were “highly experienced” and “highly qualified”, an inquest has heard.

Jean Langan, 87, died from her injuries after she was “blown over” by a rapid change in air – also known as downdraft – as a search and rescue helicopter landed at Derriford Hospital in Plymouth on March 4, 2022.

The inquest at Exeter Coroner's Court heard the helipad had been in operation for seven years before her death, carrying out 2,500 landings – including 140 by search and rescue helicopters.

The pilots involved in the crash had both served in the Royal Navy and had a combined 12,000 hours of flying time, the hearing was told.

The Investigation already heard Ms Langan died from head injuries after falling backwards due to the downdraft.

Air Accident Investigation Branch investigator Richard James told the jury it was unlikely the pilots – who he described as “very experienced” and “highly trained” – would have seen her being flown over.

After her death, large helicopters were banned from landing at Derriford helipad, he added.

On Monday he told the inquest that communication between the helicopter operators and the hospital had not been effective.

He said this was not just an issue at Derriford Hospital but nationally and plans were underway to improve communication.

The investigation continues.