Without knowing what the action plans are with regards to what services are put on standby for an aircraft emergency, it's possible that notifying the water rescue services is completely normal practice, you just don't know it.
So anytime an aircraft declares a PAN or Mayday, there would be a set list of services to notify so that they are aware.
Like I said, the PA's did leave something to be desired (if I made a PA like that, I'd be hauled over the coals), but I think a lot of the event has been blown out of proportion by the media (that's no surprise) and people jumping to conclusions.
It'll be interesting to see the final report when it's completed in probably 5-6 years!
Mick
|