Flying in a helicopter for the first time can be a very enjoyable and exciting experience. Before you fly you need to be aware of the dangers of being around one of these aircraft. It is important that all flights begin with a thorough safety briefing so that you have a full understanding of what is expected.
Your preflight safety briefing is normally given by your pilot and should include the use seat belts, how to buckle and unbuckle them.
Location and means of opening doors, emergency exits and, for over water flights, ditching procedure and the use of flotation equipment.
You should also be familiar with the location and use of emergency gear and survival equipment.
Most helicopters are equipped with a main rotor and a tail rotor. Great care should be taken if you board a helicopter while the rotors are turning.
Avoid the rear of the helicopter where the tail rotor is located.
Crouch low before reaching and walking under the main rotor system.
Approach the helicopter in line of the pilot's vision and always make eye contact with the pilot before you approach.
Hold on to loose items of clothing and articles you may be carrying.
Never reach up or chase after objects that might get blown away from you.
If the helicopter is located on a slope, do not approach or depart the helicopter on the upslope side. Avoid the area of lowest rotor clearance and approach the helicopter from the front, never from the rear.
Never open the doors of the helicopter during flight or on the ground and never unbuckle your seat belt or shoulder harness unless directed to do so by the pilot or other crew members.
The sensation of flying in a helicopter is very different from that of a fixed wing aircraft.
If during your flight you begin to suffer from motion sickness be sure to let your pilot know as soon as possible. If you are sitting in the front with the pilot and there are no sick bags available, the safest option is to pull open the front of your shirt, sweater or T-shirt and use this area to contain any vomit. This will prevent the pilot, pilot's instruments and windshield being covered. The pilot and other passengers will be very grateful to you.
Richard has been flying helicopters for ten years in various operations in different parts of the world. His career began with flight instruction and moved on to corporate to off shore and finally settling in California to fly an emergency medical services helicopter. For information on helicopter safety and helicopter pilot careers, visit http://helipilotcareers.com
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
