Embarking on a helicopter flight is an exhilarating experience, yet it demands a high level of safety awareness and cooperation from each passenger to ensure a successful journey. In this blog post, we will give you a helicopter safety briefing for passengers so you are on you can contribute to a safe and enjoyable flight.
How to contribute to a successful flight
First and foremost, it's vital to approach your flight with reasonableness and understanding. Every request made to the flight crew should be measured and mindful of the overall safety protocols. The safety of the flight largely depends on the crew's expertise, and as passengers, our role is to support and adhere to their guidance.
A common yet critical aspect often overlooked is the proper handling of helicopter doors. The abrupt and careless slamming of doors can pose a risk not only to the aircraft's structure but also to the safety of those on board. Therefore, gentle handling of doors is more than a courtesy; it's a safety necessity.
Knowing how to safely embark and disembark the helicopter is the next step in your pre-flight education. This includes an understanding of inflight and ground procedures, which are pivotal in maintaining safety throughout the journey.
Additionally, familiarity with the location and use of safety and survival equipment onboard is essential. In the unlikely event of an emergency, this knowledge could be lifesaving. Alongside this, a clear understanding of the helicopter's emergency procedures is crucial. These procedures are designed to maximize your safety and ensure a coordinated response should a critical situation arise.
Lastly, you should know the brace position, a fundamental aspect of helicopter safety that is designed to protect passengers in the event of an impact. Understanding and practicing this position can significantly reduce the risk of injury.
Helicopter safety briefing for passengers
As a passenger, you can contribute to a successful flight by following these tips and guidelines:
On the ground
Before you depart, here are a few helicopter safety briefing tips on the ground:
- dress for the weather
- inform the pilot of – your baggage weight, any applicable medical problems, or susceptibility to motion sickness
- don't smoke in or around the helicopter or any aircraft
- stay well to the side of the helipad when the helicopter is arriving or departing
- secure your clothing and headgear against rotor winds
- protect your eyes against blown dust and particles
- wait for instructions to approach or leave the helicopter approach and leave to the side or front in a crouched position – NEVER by the rear of the helicopter
- if possible, wait until the rotors stop turning
- approach and leave by the downslope side – for rotor clearance
- carry gear firmly at your side, never over your shoulder or above your head
- never throw items toward the helicopter, load cargo carefully and secure it against movement
- ensure baggage compartment doors are properly closed and latched with seatbelts inside.
- take a reserve of special medications you require in the event of en-route delays
On board
Once on board, follow these tips:
- secure seat belts (and shoulder straps, if provided)
- use a helmet or headset if provided
- remain in your seat unless given permission to move
- do not distract the pilot during takeoff, maneuvering, or loading
- read instructions on the operation of doors and emergency exits, and familiarize yourself with the location of the ELT (emergency locator transmitter) and emergency equipment
During an emergency
If there is an in-flight emergency, follow these helicopter safety briefing tips:
- follow instructions
- do not distract the pilot
- check that any loose gear in the cabin is secured
- wear a helmet if provided
- remove eyewear and put them in a safe place (you might need them later)
- assume brace position
- tighten seat-belts
- with shoulder straps, tighten and sit upright, knees together, arms folded across the chest
- without shoulder straps, bend forward so your chest is on your lap, head on knees, arms folded under thighs
After an emergency landing
After you have landed, follow these tips:
- wait for instructions to exit or until the rotor stops turning
- assist others to evacuate well clear of the aircraft
- remove first aid kit and other emergency equipment after no threat of fire
- administer first aid if required
- remove the ELT, read the instructions and activate
- set up camp to be as comfortable as possible
- make the site as conspicuous as possible from the air
- stay near the aircraft – don't wander away from the site unless necessary
- in water entry, follow Egress Training procedures
Ensuring a safe and enjoyable helicopter flight extends far beyond merely boarding the aircraft. It encompasses a series of deliberate actions and precautions, starting well before the rotors begin to spin. From dressing appropriately for the weather conditions to the way you approach and depart from the helicopter, every step plays a crucial role in ensuring your safety and comfort. By informing the pilot of crucial details like baggage weight and personal medical conditions, securing your belongings against rotor winds, and adhering to specific boarding and disembarking procedures, you contribute significantly to a successful flight experience.
Remember, safety in aviation is not just the responsibility of the flight crew but also of every passenger on board. If you fly over water, consider taking our aviation egress training for passengers. This training can help ensure you are prepared to handle emergencies with confidence.
