Dr. Christopher Brooks spent the better part of his life, in the Royal Canadian Navy and after, struggling to make flying in a helicopter over water much safer. He researched and published on marine survival problems extensively as a leading expert in the field, including life jackets and survival suits, and helped foster improvements in marine standards worldwide. Many of his articles were published in the Aerospace Medical Association’s (AsMA’s) journal.

Dr. Brooks passed away in October 2024. At that time, he had nearly completed his final publication, a detailed history of maritime helicopter safety and survival, including theoretical and practical developments, watershed moments over the decades and featuring major Canadian achievements in the field. He hoped that many would benefit, particularly aircrew and passengers, but also scientists, engineers, clothing designers, and regulators. A small team of Dr. Brooks’ colleagues have collaborated to help bring his final work to the audience for which it was intended. The book is called “Ditching, Ditching, Ditching: Canada’s Significant Contributions to Maritime Helicopter Safety and Survival.” It was published by Friesen Press on February 17, 2026, and will be available from other outlets in the coming weeks. A web page has been set up for the book; this page will be updated with links to other outlets (Apple Books, etc.) as they become active in the coming weeks.

Dr. Brooks’ obituary can found in the November 2024 newsletter, available in the Newsletter Archive. He was an Emeritus Member of AsMA, served on the International Activities Committee, and was the recipient of AsMA’s Theodore C. Lyster Award.