NOXIOUS gases coming from sewage and industrial waste being pumped into Kai Tak nullah are corroding the new helicopters of the Government Flying Service, putting safety at risk and costing hundreds of thousands of dollars a year.
The service's pilots and staff working within metres of the nullah have complained of irritation to the eyes and of dreadful working conditions caused by the foul smell.
Sensitive electronic and computer equipment is corroding four times faster than engineers expect and the gases are even eating into unreactive metals such as gold and silver.
Silver-plated electronic plugs on communication equipment of the eight S76 helicopters turn black within days, according to the service's engineers.
Navigation equipment is constantly being sent overseas to be repaired with the solid gold connection pins turning black despite being virtually sealed within consoles.
The paintwork of all the service's aircraft, including the Super Kingair fixing planes, is constantly treated for corrosion, taking up vital man-hours.
