HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook

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HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook
HAI HELI-EXPO 2019
     Exhibiting Aircraft &
Flight Operations Guidelines /
    Pilot Safety Handbook
   Georgia World Congress Center
            Atlanta, GA

               Helicopter Association International
     1920 Ballenger Ave., 4th Flr., Alexandria, VA 22314-2818
       P 703-683-4646 | F 703-683-0341 | www.rotor.org
HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook
Contents
Important Notes for Pilots and Exhibitors .......................................................................................................... Page 1

Experimental or Restricted-Category Aircraft ............................................................................................................. 2

Required Documentation for Aircraft Display.............................................................................................................. 2

Georgia World Congress Center Access .......................................................................................................................... 2

Aircraft to Be Displayed in an Exhibit Booth................................................................................................................. 3

Flight Operations Briefing and Fly-In Schedule at the Georgia World Congress Center ............................ 3

Staging of Aircraft to the Georgia World Congress Center ...................................................................................... 4

FBO and Flight Line Services ............................................................................................................................................... 5

Arrival and Departure Procedures .................................................................................................................................... 5

Participant Routes .................................................................................................................................................................... 6

Aircraft Fuel Requirements .................................................................................................................................................. 8

Air-to-Ground Communications ......................................................................................................................................... 8

Ground-Handling Personnel and Towing Equipment ............................................................................................... 8

Late Arrivals ............................................................................................................................................................................... 9

Aircraft Preparation for Move-In to Exhibit and Static Areas ............................................................................. 10

Aircraft Preparation for Move-Out of Exhibit and Static Areas .......................................................................... 11

Thursday, March 7, Departures ....................................................................................................................................... 12

Friday, March 8 – Saturday, March 9, Departures ................................................................................................... 12

Important Contacts and Telephone Numbers ........................................................................................................... 13

Checklist and Important Deadlines for Aircraft Exhibitors and Pilots ............................................................ 15

Checklist for Aircraft Entering the Georgia World Congress Center ................................................................ 16

Checklist for Aircraft Exiting the Georgia World Congress Center ................................................................... 18

Aircraft Display Form .......................................................................................................................................................... 20

FAA Safety Alert for Operators 16016, dated 11/15/16 ...................................................................................... 22

Appendix A ............................................................................................................................................................................... 25

Appendix B .............................................................................................................................................................................. 27
HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook
Date: January 8, 2019

Dear HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibitor,

Enclosed is the Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook for HAI
HELI-EXPO 2019, to be held at the Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC) in Atlanta, GA. This
document is also available on the HAI website at rotor.org/opshandbook.

This handbook provides exhibitors and pilots with essential information for bringing aircraft safely
to the GWCC. Fly-in dates are Thursday, Feb. 28; Friday, March 1; and Saturday, March 2, 2019.

Please review this document carefully and ensure all requirements are met. There are several
critical requirements to which all exhibitors must adhere regarding aircraft fuel loads and
insurance, whether the aircraft is flown, trucked, or trailered to HAI HELI-EXPO 2019. Note:
aircraft display forms are provided on p. 19. An aircraft display form for each aircraft that
will be exhibited at HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 must be completed and returned to HAI by Friday,
Jan. 25, 2019.

This handbook also provides safety and flight operations procedures for exhibitors displaying
aircraft at the show. This information is extremely important. Please provide a copy to each pilot
who will be flying an aircraft to and/or from the GWCC and to anyone responsible for preparing any
aircraft that is to be trucked in.

Please note that the policies and guidelines set forth herein are not intended to supersede, and do
not supersede, any applicable FAA rule or regulation. All exhibitors and pilots shall comply with
applicable FAA rules and regulations at all times.

If, after reviewing this manual, you have further questions or need additional information regarding
flying in aircraft, please contact:
        •   Harold Summers, HAI director of flight operations
            703-302-8455 (office), 337-288-9016 (cell), or harold.summers@rotor.org

For questions relating to trucking in aircraft, please contact:
        •   Jason Stanforth, GES on-site POC, 407-467-0543 or jstanforth@ges.com

We look forward to seeing you in Atlanta.

Harold (Hal) L. Summers                                 Charlotte Zilke, CEM, CMP
Director, Flt. Operations & Technical Services          Director of Conventions
Helicopter Association International                    Helicopter Association International
Welcome to HAI HELI-EXPO 2019
                     Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia
                                                 Show Dates
                                   Monday, March 4 – Thursday, March 7, 2019

                                                  Fly-In Dates
                                   Thursday, Feb. 28 – Saturday, March 2, 2019

                                                Exhibits Open
                                   Tuesday, March 5 – Thursday, March 7, 2019

                                               Fly-Out Dates
                                PM Thursday, March 7 – Saturday, March 9, 2019

We are pleased you will be joining us for HAI’s annual trade show and exposition. This year’s HAI
HELI-EXPO will be held in Atlanta, GA, at the Georgia World Congress Center (hereafter referred to
as GWCC).

This handbook provides critical information regarding flight operations and safety procedures for
the event. Please note that the policies and guidelines set forth herein are not intended to
supersede, and do not supersede, any applicable FAA rule or regulation. All exhibitors and pilots
must at all times comply with applicable FAA rules and regulations.

All pilots who fly aircraft to and/or from the GWCC must review the material in this handbook
before attending the pilot safety briefing. This handbook is also available at
rotor.org/opshandbook.

Important Notes for Pilots and Exhibitors
All pilots flying aircraft to/from the GWCC must possess at least an FAA or equivalate private pilot
certificate, or higher, with approval for “rotorcraft – helicopter.” All pilots must also be current and
qualified in the make and model of rotorcraft they intend to operate.

All flights conducted to/from the GWCC shall be conducted with the minimum crew necessary to
safely conduct the fly-in and fly-out. Under no circumstances are passengers permitted to be
aboard aircraft during fly-in/fly-out operations.

It is important for exhibitors who intend to display aircraft at HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 to understand
that once an aircraft has been towed into the GWCC facilities, it will not be permitted to depart from
the GWCC until after the conclusion of the show at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 7, and in
coordination with the HAI Flight Operations staff

The order of departure for all aircraft is at the discretion of the HAI Flight Operations staff. If you
have specific needs for the timing of your aircraft departure, please contact the HAI Flight
Operations staff:
         •    Harold Summers, director of flight operations, 337-288-9016 (cell) or
         •    Zac Noble, deputy director of flight operations, 540-809-0181 (cell)

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0         1
Experimental or Restricted-Category Aircraft
Any exhibitor intending to fly-in an aircraft that is in the experimental or restricted category must
be familiar with and comply with FAA requirements regarding the flight of those aircraft over
congested areas. The process for gaining FAA approval for such flights should be initiated well in
advance of HAI HELI-EXPO 2019.

For assistance with experimental or restricted category aircraft issues, contact:
         •    The Atlanta FSDO, main number: 404-474-5100
         •    Albert “Al” Van Lengen, principal operations inspector, 404-474-5217,
              al.vanlengen@faa.gov
         •    Steven Newcomer, principal airworthiness/maintenance inspector, 404-474-5145,
              steven.newcomer@faa.gov

Required Documentation for Aircraft Display
This documentation is required for all aircraft that will be exhibited at HAI HELI-EXPO 2019,
including those flying in and those that will be trucked or trailered in. Any aircraft lacking
the documentation described below, including proper proof of insurance, will not be allowed
to land on GWCC premises, enter GWCC facilities, or remain parked on GWCC property.

The following documentation will be required for an aircraft to be permitted to land at or enter the
GWCC for display:
         •    Completed and approved aircraft display form (see p. 19)
         •    Proper proof of insurance, including valid certificate(s) of insurance and copies of the
              necessary endorsements and waivers in accordance with the requirements set forth in
              Appendix A of this handbook
         •    Proof of pilot attendance (maintained by HAI Flight Operations staff) at the required
              HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 pilot safety briefing.

Pilots of all aircraft being flown to or from HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 must have attended one of the pilot
orientation and safety briefings prior to arriving or departing from the GWCC. There will be no
exceptions.

Pilot orientation and safety briefings will be held on Thursday, Feb. 28; Friday, March 1; and
Saturday, March 2, 2019. The briefings will begin at 8:00 a.m. and will be held at the GWCC, Rooms
C203–204. At these briefings, pilots will be required to provide or verify important information,
including contact name, company affiliation, hotel and cell phone numbers, and the aircraft type
and registration number. This information will be used to contact the appropriate personnel in the
event of any issues with the exhibiting aircraft.

Georgia World Congress Center Access
HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 will take place in Halls B and C of the GWCC. Each hall has one designated
freight door for aircraft access. Exhibitors, take note of which hall your aircraft will be towed into,
as the doors are of different sizes:
         •    The door into Hall B measures approximately 21 feet 3 inches W x 15 feet 7 inches H
         •    The door into Hall C measures approximately 24 feet W x 27 feet H

If you are uncertain about which exhibit hall you will be in, ask your company’s exhibit contact for
HAI HELI-EXPO 2019.
HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0        2
Certain helicopters will require the removal of blades to fit through the freight doors. If you believe
your aircraft may need to be de-bladed, please advise HAI’s Flight Operations staff:
         •    Harold Summers, director of flight operations, 337-288-9016 (cell) or
         •    Zac Noble, deputy director of flight operations, 540-809-0181 (cell)

HAI staff will work closely with you to ensure a smooth and efficient transit of your aircraft into the
exhibit hall.

Any additional labor assistance or equipment needed must be coordinated with and contracted
through GES. Exhibiting companies are responsible for making any necessary arrangements for
additional services with GES and for covering any costs associated with those services. The POC for
GES is:
         •    Jason Stanforth, GES on-site POC, 407-467-0543 or jstanforth@ges.com

Aircraft to Be Displayed in an Exhibit Booth
HAI Flight Operations staff, in coordination with GES and the exhibiting companies, will preassign
fly-in time slots for all helicopters flying to the GWCC. HAI recognizes there may be a need for
exceptions because of specific booth locations on the GWCC floor and/or unanticipated issues with
aircraft.

Therefore, to the extent possible, pilots of aircraft to be displayed in an exhibit booth area will be
required to attend the pilot orientation and safety briefing on Thursday, Feb. 28, or Friday, March 1,
depending on which day your aircraft has been preassigned a time slot for repositioning to the
GWCC.

Pilots of aircraft to be displayed in the static and heritage areas, unless otherwise instructed, can
attend any of the briefings and should expect to move their aircraft during their preassigned time
slot on Saturday, March 2.

Note to all aircraft exhibitors: If, due to maintenance or other operational issues, an aircraft
cannot meet the assigned time block, contact:
         •    Matt Callan, HAI’s on-site representative at the Fulton County Airport (FTY) AS
              SOON AS POSSIBLE at 703-909-7541 or
         •    Harold Summers, director of flight operations, 337-288-9016 (cell)

Flight Operations Briefing and Fly-in Schedule at the Georgia World Congress Center

Rooms C203–204, Thursday, Feb. 28; Friday, March 1, and Saturday, March 2, 2019
    8:00 a.m. Welcome
    8:05 a.m. Pilot safety and flight operations briefing followed by tour of landing area
              (required for all pilots)
    9:30 a.m. Pilots proceed to aircraft
   10:30 a.m. GWCC landing area opens
    6:00 p.m. Last aircraft departs Fulton County Airport (FTY)
    6:30 p.m. GWCC landing area secured

Note: At HAI’s sole discretion, HAI may arrange access to the landing area on Sunday, March 3,
2019, in the event of extraordinary circumstances that prevent the completion of HAI HELI-EXPO

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0        3
2019 flight operations by 6:30 p.m., Saturday, March 2. There will be no prescheduled aircraft
arrivals on Sunday, March 3, 2019.

Staging of Aircraft to the Georgia World Congress Center
For HAI HELI-EXPO 2019, all helicopters flying to the GWCC will be pre-staged from the Fulton
County Airport – Brown Field (FTY) (hereafter referred to as Fulton County Airport (FTY)), located
approximately 6 miles west/northwest of the GWCC.
         •    Fulton County Airport (FTY)
              Airport Manager: Doug Barrett
              Phone: 404-699-4200
              3925 Aviation Circle NW, Atlanta, GA 30336

FAA Identifier: FTY                  Airport Communications                     Airport Operations

Lat/Long:                            UNICOM: 129.57                             Airport Use: Open to the public
33-46-44.8550N /
084-31-16.9176W                      ATIS: 120.175                              Activation Date: 09/1949
33-46.747583N /
084-31.281960W                       WX ASOS: PHONE 404-696-                    Sectional Chart: ATLANTA
33.7791264 /                         5660
84.5213660 (estimated)                                                          Control Tower: yes/24 hours
                                     COUNTY GROUND: 121.7 348.6
Elevation:                                                                      ARTCC: ATLANTA CENTER
841.1 ft. / 256.4 m                  COUNTY TOWER: 118.45 257.8
(surveyed)                                                                      FSS: MACON FLIGHT SERVICE
                                     ATLANTA APPROACH: 121.0                    STATION
Variation: 05W (2015)
                                     ATLANTA DEPARTURE: 121.0 NOTAMs Facility: FTY (NOTAM-D
From City: 6 miles W of                                         service available)
ATLANTA, GA                          OPNS: 141.35
                                                                Attendance: CONTINUOUS
Time Zone: UTC -4 (UTC -             WX ASOS at ATL (10 nm SE):
5 during Standard Time)              PHONE 404-762-1121         Wind Indicator: Yes

ZIP Code: 30336                      WX ASOS at PDK (12 nm NE):                 Segmented Circle: Yes
                                     PHONE 770-457-1691
                                                                                Lights: SS-SR
                                     WX AWOS-3 at RYY (15 nm
                                     N): PHONE 770-425-3406                     Beacon: White-green (lighted land
                                                                                airport); operates sunset to sunrise
                                     EMERG FREQ 121.5 NOT AVBL.
                                                                                International Operations:
                                                                                Customs landing rights airport

                                           Nearby Radio Navigation Aids
                                   VOR VOR name                            Freq       Var
                                   ATL ATLANTA VORTAC                      116.90 05W
                                   PDK PEACHTREE VOR/DME 116.60 05W
                                   RMG ROME VORTAC                         115.40 01E

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0                     4
FBO and Flight Line Services
Exhibitors should make arrangements as soon as possible with Hill Aircraft & Leasing Corp.
(www.hillaircraft.com), the FBO at the Fulton County Airport (FTY), for servicing, overnight
parking, and preparation of aircraft for display at HELI-EXPO 2019.
         •    Primary Contact:
              Shanna Ash, Customer Service Manager
              Phone: 800-827-8305, 404-691-3330
              Cell: 678-523-5883
              Email: shannam@hillaircraft.com
         •    Secondary Contact
              Wade Daniell, Line Service Manager
              Phone: 404-691-3330
              Email: waded@hillaircraft.com

HAI has confirmed that the Fulton County Airport (FTY) and its FBO, Hill Aircraft & Leasing Corp.,
have ample ramp space available to accommodate the parking of a large number of helicopters.

For the duration of the fly-in, HAI will base two staff members at Fulton County Airport (FTY). Matt
Callan will be HAI’s primary on-site representative at Fulton County Airport (FTY), accompanied by
an assistant. He will be responsible for the coordination of all departures of aircraft that are
repositioning to the GWCC and will have direct cellphone contact with the Director of Flight
Operations at the GWCC:
         •    Matt Callan, FTY on-site representative, 703-909-7541

Additional pertinent information for Fulton County Airport (FTY) is provided below for
convenience only. Note: always refer to the appropriate FAA-approved publications for
additional and current information, including frequencies and airport information.

Arrival and Departure Procedures
The following flight routes and procedures for aircraft being flown to HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 have
been developed by the Atlanta FSDO and the Fulton County Airport (FTY). Landing and takeoff of all
display aircraft at the GWCC will be to/from predesignated areas or as directed by ATC, the HAI
director of flight operations, or his representative.

Note: For all HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 air operations at the GWCC, HAI retains full and sole
discretion to authorize and/or curtail flight activities (including arrivals and departures)
predicated on weather conditions, on-site activities, and/or other safety conditions that may
be present.

All departure, enroute, and arrival procedures, frequencies, and appropriate transponder codes will
be briefed in detail by FAA ATC personnel at the required pilot safety briefings (held at 8:00 a.m. on
display aircraft fly-in days, Thursday, Feb. 28 – Saturday, March 2, 2019).

Pilots are expected to comply with appropriate federal aviation regulations and any directions
received from ATC. Arriving and departing aircraft must communicate with the appropriate
arrival/departure centers and towers.

Note: HAI requires that on initial liftoff pilots perform a stabilized hover check before departure.
Please see FAA Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) #16016, dated 11/15/16, on p. 21 of this
document.

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0     5
An ATC clearance of “GWCC Departure/Arrival Approved” implies all of the following and need not
be stated by the controller:
         •    All operations will be conducted at pilot’s own risk.
         •    Clearance does not include or ensure traffic separation or right-of-way. Pilots must be
              vigilant in their see-and-avoid responsibilities.
         •    Pilots should avoid overflight of taxiing or running aircraft at the departure and arrival
              locations.
         •    GWCC arrival and departure routes will be followed to the maximum extent possible.
              However, pilots retain authority to deviate when deemed to be in the best interest of
              flight safety.

If, due to maintenance or other operational requirements, an aircraft cannot meet the assigned
departure time block, contact Matt Callan, HAI’s primary on-site representative at FTY as soon as
possible at 703-909-7541, or HAI’s Director of Flight Operations at 337-288-9016.

                                         ***SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS***
Do not attempt to land or take off from the GWCC landing area until it is properly secured and you
have been advised to “proceed at your discretion” by the flight line control coordinator.

Each pilot is responsible for visually determining the landing site is clear and that it is safe to
proceed. Use caution at all times, as obstructions or other hazards not under the control of HAI may
be present. HAI will make every effort to secure the area and remove known hazards.

                                                    ***CAUTION***
If, for any reason, the area appears unsafe, do not attempt to land or take off. Immediately
advise ATC or Expo Ground of the problem by radio or the HAI Director of Flight Operations
by telephone at 337-288-9016.

                                                   ***WARNING***
For safety considerations, only personnel authorized by HAI will be allowed to approach an
aircraft while the rotors are turning. Please advise persons meeting your aircraft to remain
clear. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL ANY PERSON BE ALLOWED TO APPROACH OR
DEPART FROM AN AIRCRAFT DURING ROTOR RUN-UP OR COAST-DOWN WITHOUT PRIOR
APPROVAL.

Participant Routes
Upon receiving the appropriate clearances and transponder code from the Fulton County Airport
(FTY) tower and departure control, depart the parking ramp area as instructed by ATC. To the
extent possible, comply with FTY’s noise abatement procedures. (See figure 1 on p. 7 for depiction
of route).

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0         6
Figure 1. Helicopter Route Information, KFTY to GWCC

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0   7
The procedure to return to the Fulton County Airport (FTY) from the GWCC will be the reverse of
the arrival route.

Pilots are responsible for separation from other aircraft. Like all communities, the Fulton County
Airport (FTY) area and the city of Atlanta have noise-sensitive areas. As such, pilots are requested
to fly neighborly and reduce the noise impact of their flight where it is safe to do so.

All aircraft departing the Fulton County Airport (FTY) must establish communications with the FTY
tower prior to departing. If you lose communications while departing Fulton County Airport (FTY),
return for landing, look for light gun signals, and squawk 7600 (if equipped).

Aircraft Fuel Requirements
For aircraft being flown to the GWCC: The State of Georgia Fire Marshal’s Office requires that
these aircraft shall arrive at the GWCC with “full fuel.” For HAI HELI-EXPO 2019, “full fuel” is
defined as follows: all aircraft fuel tanks must be topped off, that is, full, when departing from
Fulton County Airport (FTY) for the GWCC.

For aircraft being trucked or trailered to the GWCC: The State of Georgia Fire Marshal’s Office
requires these aircraft arrive with no fuel and that fuel systems be purged prior to aircraft arrival
at the GWCC. These helicopters are also required to be trucked or trailered out of the GWCC at the
conclusion of HELI-EXPO 2019. Only those aircraft that flew in may be flown out.

Note: No fueling and/or defueling will be permitted at the GWCC.

Air-to-Ground Communications
Air-to-ground communications procedures and frequencies will be briefed in detail at the
morning pilot briefings by FAA ATC representatives.

HAI staff manning the Expo Ground frequency (123.05 MHz) will only act in an advisory capacity
for arrivals and departures at the designated landing/take-off area at the GWCC. Terms such as
“cleared to land” or “cleared to take off,” which denote ATC authority, will not be used. All
instructions and guidance received, regardless of terminology used, are to be considered advisory
in nature.

Pilots have the ultimate responsibility to obtain current navigational charts, review current
NOTAMS, and any other appropriate publications before coming to HAI HELI-EXPO 2019.

Ground-Handling Personnel and Towing Equipment
The selected towing company under contract with HAI will be the only agent authorized to
move aircraft into, out of, or within the GWCC. No hand repositioning of aircraft is permitted.

All aircraft will be towed from the landing area into the appropriate hall in the GWCC. Again, no
hand-pushing of aircraft will be allowed.

Exhibitors are required to provide ground-handling wheels, tow bars, or any special towing
equipment, as well as any personnel required to assist in the ground movement of their
helicopter(s) into and out of the exhibit halls.

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0      8
Exhibitors are also responsible for ensuring that all necessary tools, blade slings, other blade
lifting/folding devices, and qualified personnel are available to conduct any maintenance on their
aircraft.

If you require other on-site equipment during move-in or move-out, including cranes or forklifts,
refer to your Exhibitor Services Kit and contact:
         •    Jason Stanforth, GES on-site POC, 407-467-0543 or jstanforth@ges.com

Late Arrivals
Late arrivals to the GWCC will be authorized only when the necessary HAI ground safety and fire
guard personnel/equipment can be made available. HAI makes no guarantees about its ability to
accommodate late arrivals. If you believe your aircraft will be unable to reach the GWCC during its
scheduled arrival time, contact the HAI Flight Operations staff:
         •    Harold Summers, director of flight operations, 337-288-9016 (cell) or
         •    Zac Noble, deputy director of flight operations, 540-809-0181 (cell)

Approval of requests for late arrival is not guaranteed and should not be assumed. If late arrival is
approved, access to the landing site will be arranged. If required, HAI will assist in coordinating
with other exhibitors who are affected. Exhibitors requesting a deviation may be responsible
for any additional expenses associated with a late move-in.

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0      9
Aircraft Preparation for Move-In to Exhibit and Static Areas:
Thursday, Feb. 28; Friday, March 1; and Saturday, March 2, 2019
Exhibitors displaying aircraft are urged to contact the GES on-site POC prior to arrival at the GWCC
to coordinate entry of aircraft into the exhibit halls. Pilots, please know which hall you are going
into and your booth or static space number:
         •    Jason Stanforth, GES on-site POC, 407-467-0543 or jstanforth@ges.com

Upon arrival, aircraft will be towed from the landing area into the appropriate exhibit hall of the
GWCC. It is possible that the exhibitors of aircraft with more than 2 main rotor blades will need to
remove one or more rotor blades prior to moving into the GWCC.

If de-blading is necessary, the aircraft will be moved to a location clear of the landing area to
conduct necessary maintenance. It is the responsibility of the exhibitor to ensure the necessary
tools and qualified personnel are available to conduct any and all maintenance on their aircraft.

Note: Aircraft without appropriate documentation, including proof of insurance, will not be
allowed to land on GWCC premises, enter GWCC facilities, or remain parked on GWCC
property.

Upon landing at the GWCC, the aircraft must be prepared as follows:
    1. Cool down the aircraft in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.
    2. Check and verify that the appropriate amount of fuel is in all tanks.
    3. Shut off the aircraft fuel systems and verify that there is no leakage or seepage.
    4. Deactivate circuit breakers for fuel and starting systems to prevent inadvertent activation.
       Exhibitor personnel shall verify this has been accomplished once the aircraft has entered
       the exhibition facility.
    5. Disconnect battery(ies).
    6. Lock or tape over aircraft fuel caps (locking fuel caps are preferred), and tape close all fuel
       vents. Note: be sure to bring the necessary supply of tape and tie wraps for preparing
       the aircraft for entry into the GWCC.
    7. If main rotor blades will be folded or removed, advise HAI’s director of flight operations, or
       other authorized on-site HAI flight operations personnel of that fact before commencing
       these operations, as rotor downwash from other aircraft could damage loose cowlings
       and/or hinder blade removal.
    8. Contact the GES on-site POC before entering the GWCC.
    9. After GES approval and completion of preparations, move aircraft to the exhibit booth areas,
       static area, or heritage area as instructed.
    10. Use ground personnel (wing walkers) to avoid possible damage to your aircraft or other
        exhibits and have wheel chocks immediately available for insertion should the situation
        demand such action. All companies with helicopters moving into the GWCC are responsible
        for providing their own ground personnel. Note: Please instruct your ground personnel
        (wing-walkers) to remain focused on the task at hand and not be distracted with
        things like texting or talking on their phone. Remember: no hand-pushing of aircraft
        is allowed.
    11. Provide to the HAI Flight Operations staff ACCURATE and COMPLETE contact information
        for your local (Atlanta area) point of contact in case any issues arise during the exposition.
        Include full name; cellphone number; and hotel name, phone number, and room numbers.
    12. Do not leave aircraft ground-handling equipment outside overnight at the GWCC before,
        during, or after the show.

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0       10
Aircraft Preparation for Move-Out of Exhibit and Static Areas:
4 p.m., Thursday, March 7; Friday, March 8, Saturday, March 9, 2019
The following procedures shall be followed to ensure safe and efficient move out and departure
from the GWCC.
    1. Do not move or reposition your aircraft from its assigned exhibit area, static area, or
       heritage area until clearance to do so is obtained from GES and HAI’s director of flight
       operations or a designated member of HAI’s Flight Operations staff.
    2. All aircraft movement into, out of, or within the GWCC will be performed by the
       towing company under contract with HAI. NO HAND REPOSITIONING OF AIRCRAFT IS
       PERMITTED. The towing company’s staff will be available to provide tug services for the
       exhibit hall and static area. To avoid damage to the aircraft or other exhibits, ground
       personnel (wing walkers) must be used when moving aircraft from inside the GWCC to the
       flight operations area; and have wheel chocks immediately available for insertion should
       the situation demand such action. All exhibitors are responsible for providing their own
       ground personnel.
    3. Once aircraft have been moved to the flight operations area for final preparation for
       departure, do not leave the aircraft unattended.
    4. Complete any required reassembly of the aircraft, such as reinstallation of main rotor
       blades if previously removed. Remove any tape over gas cap and vents. Remove any tie-
       wraps installed on circuit breakers, including those for fuel and starting systems, and
       reactivate as appropriate. Reconnect battery(ies) as appropriate for towing and/or
       departure checks.
    5. Ensure that any other precautionary steps taken to prepare the aircraft for display have
       been evaluated and appropriately addressed. ENSURE THAT THE AIRCRAFT HAS BEEN
       RETURNED TO A FULLY AIRWORTHY CONDITION AND THAT ALL APPROPRIATE AND
       REQUIRED LOGBOOK ENTRIES ARE MADE.
    6. Verify that your aircraft has the appropriate amount of fuel aboard to safely complete the
       flight to your next destination and to be in compliance with FAA regulations.
    7. Complete a thorough preflight inspection in accordance with maintenance and operational
       procedures.
    8. Establish two-way radio communication before start-up. Do not start aircraft engine(s)
       until advised to do so by one of the on-site HAI flight line control personnel. After all
       checklists are complete and you are ready for takeoff, advise the HAI flight line control
       coordinator via Expo Ground frequency, who will advise you when to switch to ATC
       departure frequency. When the area is clear, you will be advised by the appropriate FAA
       ATC, HAI, or otherwise designated personnel that you can then move to the takeoff/landing
       position for departure.
    9. Note: Upon initial liftoff, you must perform a stabilized hover check before
       commencing your departure. Reference: FAA Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO)
       #16016 dated 11/15/16, p. 21.
    10. Pilots are reminded to be alert for possible conflicting traffic.

Exhibitors must advise Harold Summers, HAI director of flight operations, at 337-288-9016 or a
member of the HAI flight operations staff if an aircraft cannot be moved out promptly. Exhibitors
are responsible for arranging for the security of their aircraft outside the exhibit hall or static area
when departures are delayed.

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0         11
Thursday, March 7, Departures (4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.)
Weather conditions and visibility permitting, limited departures will be permitted on Thursday,
March 7, between show closure at 4:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Note: Only day/VFR operations are permitted. No aircraft will be permitted to depart after
6:30 p.m.

ONLY those pilots who attended one of the fly-in/fly-out pilot briefings may fly an aircraft during
the fly-out. If an aircraft is sold or ownership otherwise transferred during HAI HELI-EXPO 2019,
the aircraft must, nevertheless, be flown by an appropriately rated pilot that is qualified in the make
and model and WHO ATTENDED A PILOT BRIEFING. It is preferable that the same pilot who flew
the aircraft to the GWCC also fly it out.

All HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 insurance requirements must continue to be met for aircraft being flown
out, either with the original insurance still in force or with insurance obtained by the new owners.

Note: If new insurance is obtained, or if existing insurance coverage changes, the responsible
owners/exhibitors should immediately contact Roxanne R. Fox, HAI V.P. of corporate affairs,
at 301-518-3996 (cell) and Harold Summers, HAI director of flight operations, at 337-288-
9016, to present updated insurance documents so they can be properly vetted prior to being
approved for flight departure. Regardless of the reason for any new/modified insurance,
coverage MUST STILL COMPLY with all insurance requirements.

Note: Any and all pilot changes/substitutions must be coordinated with, and approved by,
the HAI director of flight operations or an authorized member of the HAI flight operations
staff.

No aircraft will be permitted to move from their booths on the GWCC floor or from the GWCC hall
static display area UNTIL AFTER THE SHOW CLOSES AT 4:00 P.M. There can be no exceptions
made to this policy. Aircraft will not be permitted to move to the outside departure area after
6:00 p.m.

Due to the short departure window (4:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.), HAI’s Flight Operations staff will
predetermine the Thursday, March 7, after-show departures. Only those aircraft designated by
HAI staff for a Thursday departure will be towed to the flight line area for departure. To the extent
possible, priority for Thursday, March 7, afternoon departures may be given to exhibitors that have
indicated a special need on their aircraft display forms and have reasonable access to the exit doors.

Please refer to Arrival/Departure Procedures (p. 5) for additional information.

Friday, March 8 – Saturday, March 9, Departures - 7:15 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Unless delayed by local weather, all aircraft must be removed from the GWCC by 6:30 p.m. on
Saturday, March 9. Any aircraft remaining at the GWCC after this deadline may be subject to
removal by ground transport at the owner’s expense to the nearest FBO.

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0     12
Important Contacts and Telephone Numbers

HAI Director of Flight Operations                               Office: 703-683-4646 or DD: 703-302-8455
Harold “Hal” Summers                                            Cell: 337-288-9016
                                                                harold.summers@rotor.org

HAI V.P. of Operations                                          Office: 703-302-1606
Chris Martino                                                   Cell: 540-907-9688

HAI Deputy Director of Flight Operations                        Office: 703-302-1608
Zac Noble                                                       Cell: 540-809-0181

HAI Flight Line Coordinator for FTY                             Cell: 703-909-7541
Matt Callan

HAI Director of Safety                                          Office: 703-302-8451
Chris Hill                                                      Cell: 703-401-1661

For insurance and waiver issues, contact:                       Office: 703-683-4646
HAI V.P. Corporate Affairs                                      Cell: 301-518-3996
Roxanne R. Fox                                                  roxanne.fox@rotor.org

Atlanta FAA FSDO                                                Main number: 404-474-5100

Operations POC                                                  Office: 404-474-5217
Albert “AL” Van Lengen

Airworthiness POC                                               Office: 404-474-5145
Steven Newcomer

GES                                                             Office: 407-467-0543
Jason Stanforth                                                 jstanforth@ges.com

Fulton County Airport (FTY) Manager                             Office: 404-699-4200
Doug Barrett

Hill Aircraft & Leasing Corp                                    Office: 800-827-8305 or 404-691-3330
Shanna Ash, Customer Service Manager                            Cell: 678-523-5883
                                                                shannam@hillaircraft.com

Note: Primary FAA contact for all operations/flight related questions and issues, including the
operation of any aircraft with an experimental or restricted-category airworthiness certificate, is
Albert “Al” Van Lengen, who can be reached at 404-474-5217.

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0         13
HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Forms and Documents Enclosed

     HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Checklist and Important Deadlines for Aircraft Exhibitors and Pilots

     HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Checklist for Aircraft Entering the GWCC

     HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Checklist for Aircraft Exiting the GWCC

     HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Aircraft Display Form

     SAFO 16016, Helicopter Stabilized Hover Checks Before Departure

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0   14
HAI HELI-EXPO 2019
            Checklist and Important Deadlines for Aircraft Exhibitors and Pilots

     Submit aircraft display form (p. 19) to HAI by COB, Friday, Jan. 25, 2019

     Following pilot briefing, submit acknowledgment, waiver, and release form to HAI for
      pilots flying aircraft in/out

     Arrange for FBO/flight-line services as early as possible

     Plan for full fuel in tanks upon arrival as outlined on page 8 of this handbook

     Review current arrival/departure procedures and charts

     Arrange for tow-bars/ground handling and, if required, rotor blade removal tools,
      equipment, and personnel

     Note aircraft location in GWCC, including which hall and booth number (ask your company’s
      exhibit contact for this information); please note: the freight doors in each hall are different
      sizes (see p. 2 for more information)

         Aircraft will be in GWCC Hall: _________________ Booth Number: __________________________________

Pilot Orientation and Safety Briefings
All pilots must attend a pilot briefing before they can land an aircraft at or take off from the GWCC.

Briefings will take place each morning from Thursday, Feb. 28 – Saturday, March 2, 2019, at 8:00
a.m. in rooms C203–204 at the GWCC. Pilots of aircraft to be displayed in an exhibit booth area will
be required to attend the briefings on Thursday, Feb. 28, or Friday, March 1, depending the
preassigned day/time slot for repositioning your aircraft to the GWCC.

Pilots of aircraft to be displayed in the static and heritage areas can attend any of the briefings and
should expect to move their aircraft during their preassigned time slot on Saturday, March 2.

Note: Any pilot of static or heritage area aircraft who is able to attend the Thursday, Feb. 28, or the
Friday, March 1, briefing may receive an earlier preassigned fly-in time slot. Potential
reassignments will only occur on a schedule-permitting basis and only with the approval of the HAI
director of flight operations.

If you need additional details or clarifications, please contact the HAI flight operations staff.

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0        15
HAI HELI-EXPO 2019
              Checklist for Aircraft Entering the Georgia World Congress Center
Aircraft without documentation and proper proof of insurance, will not be allowed to land
on GWCC premises, enter GWCC facilities, or remain parked on GWCC property.

Complete, sign and submit this form for EACH aircraft to a member of HAI’s flight operations
personnel AFTER the aircraft has been towed into the GWCC and positioned in or near your
assigned booth or static space.
                                                                                                      Verified by
Aircraft Registration No: __________________________ Model No: ______________________________          (Initials)

  1. Aircraft fuel is at full fuel level in accordance with page 8 and FAA regulations.
                                                                                                     _____________
      Total gallons onboard _______ _______
  2. Aircraft fuel systems secured and verified for no leakage or seepage                            _____________
  3. Circuit breakers for fuel and starting systems deactivated and tie-wrapped to                   _____________
     prevent inadvertent activation, and verified by exhibitor personnel
  4. Battery(ies) disconnected                                                                       _____________
  5. Aircraft fuel caps locked or taped shut (locking fuel caps are preferred)                       _____________
  6. All fuel vents taped closed                                                                     _____________
  7. Main rotor blades folded or removed at this time if required                                    _____________
  8. Exhibitor representatives must contact HAI’s selected towing company when                       _____________
     their aircraft is ready to be moved into the GWCC; the towing company
     personnel will be available at the landing/staging area at the GWCC
  9. Provide HAI flight operations personnel with a local point of contact; any aircraft _____________
     issues that occur during the show will be directed to this person:

      Full Name (printed): _____________________________________________________________________

      Cell Phone: ___________________________ Email:____________________________________________

      Hotel: _____________________________ Room No:__________ Hotel Phone No:______________
10. All appropriate logbook entries for any and all maintenance performed MUST be _____________
    completed in accordance with FAA regulatory requirements, including but not
    limited to rotor blade removal and reinstallation

After completion of preparation, and with approval by HAI flight operations personnel,
aircraft will be moved to the exhibit hall or static area as instructed. Use appropriate ground
personnel (wing-walkers) to avoid possible damage to aircraft or other exhibits while moving
into the GWCC, and have wheel chocks immediately available for insertion should the
situation demand such action. Aircraft ground-handling equipment may NOT be left outside
overnight at the GWCC before, during, or after the show. High vehicular traffic is possible, and
there is no dedicated security for these items.

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0                  16
By my signature below:
    •    I certify that Items 1 through 10 above have been completely and properly accomplished.
    •    I HEREBY INDEMNIFY, HOLD HARMLESS, AND PROMISE NOT TO SUE HAI AND ITS OFFICERS,
         DIRECTORS, AFFILIATES, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES, AGENTS, AND CONTRACTORS
         (COLLECTIVELY, THE “COVERED PARTIES”) FOR ANY AND ALL LIABILITIES OR CLAIMS MADE BY
         THIRD PARTIES FOR INJURY (INCLUDING PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH) AND DAMAGE TO
         PROPERTY, RESULTING FROM, ARISING OUT OF, RELATING TO, OR IN CONNECTION WITH MY
         FAILURE TO ENSURE THAT ANY ACTION IDENTIFIED IN ITEMS 1 THROUGH 10 ABOVE IS
         COMPLETELY AND PROPERLY ACCOMPLISHED.
    •    I HEREBY WAIVE, RELEASE, AND DISCHARGE THE COVERED PARTIES FROM ANY AND ALL
         LIABILITY FOR INJURY (INCLUDING PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH) OR ANY DAMAGE TO
         PROPERTY.

  Authorized Signature                                                                                 Date

  Printed Name                                                                                       Cell Phone

  Position or Title                                                                                  Employer

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0                17
HAI HELI-EXPO 2019
               Checklist for Aircraft Exiting the Georgia World Congress Center
Complete, sign and submit this form for EACH aircraft to a member of HAI’s flight operations
personnel UPON exiting the GWCC and PRIOR to takeoff.
                                                                                                      Verified by
Aircraft Registration No: __________________________ Model No: ______________________________          (Initials)
  1. If removed, reinstall main rotor and/or tail rotor blades, in accordance with the               _____________
     manufacturer appropriate instructions and procedures
  2. Remove any tape from fuel and battery vents, aircraft fuel caps, static ports, _____________
     and/or pitot systems
  3. Remove from circuit breakers tie-wraps that were used to prevent                                _____________
     inadvertent activation of fuel and starting systems and reactivate
  4. Reconnect battery(ies)                                                                          _____________
  5. Ensure any precautionary steps taken to prepare the aircraft for display have                   _____________
     been evaluated and appropriately addressed and that the aircraft has been
     returned to a fully airworthy condition
  6. ALL APPROPRIATE LOGBOOK ENTRIES MUST BE COMPLETED IN                                            _____________
     ACCORDANCE WITH FAA REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR ANY AND ALL
     MAINTENANCE PERFORMED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ROTOR
     BLADE REMOVAL AND REINSTALLATION
  7. Complete a thorough preflight inspection, in accordance with maintenance and                    _____________
     operational procedures, and verify aircraft has appropriate fuel to safely
     complete flight to next destination airport in accordance with FAA regulations.
  8. HAI requires that on initial liftoff, pilots perform a stabilized hover check before            _____________
     commencing departure (Ref: FAA Safety Alert for Operators (SAFO) #16016
     dated 11/15/16, see p. 21)

      After completion of preparation, and with approval by HAI flight
      operations personnel, aircraft will be moved from the exhibit hall or static
      area as instructed. Use appropriate ground personnel (wing-walkers) to
      avoid possible damage to aircraft or other exhibits while moving out of the
      GWCC, and have wheel chocks immediately available for insertion should
      the situation demand such action. Aircraft ground-handling equipment
      may NOT be left outside overnight at the GWCC before, during, or after the
      show. High vehicular traffic is possible, and there is no dedicated security
      for these items.

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0               18
By my signature below:
     •    I certify that Items 1 through 8 above have been completely and properly accomplished.
     •    I HEREBY INDEMNIFY, HOLD HARMLESS, AND PROMISE NOT TO SUE HAI AND ITS OFFICERS,
          DIRECTORS, AFFILIATES, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES, AGENTS, AND CONTRACTORS
          (COLLECTIVELY, THE “COVERED PARTIES”) FOR ANY AND ALL LIABILITIES OR CLAIMS MADE BY
          THIRD PARTIES FOR INJURY (INCLUDING PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH) AND DAMAGE TO
          PROPERTY, RESULTING FROM, ARISING OUT OF, RELATING TO, OR IN CONNECTION WITH MY
          FAILURE TO ENSURE THAT ANY ACTION IDENTIFIED IN ITEMS 1 THROUGH 10 ABOVE IS
          COMPLETELY AND PROPERLY ACCOMPLISHED.
     •    I HEREBY WAIVE, RELEASE, AND DISCHARGE THE COVERED PARTIES FROM ANY AND ALL
          LIABILITY FOR INJURY (INCLUDING PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH) OR ANY DAMAGE TO
          PROPERTY.

  Authorized Signature                                                                                 Date

  Printed Name                                                                                       Cell Phone

  Position or Title                                                                                  Employer

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0                19
HAI HELI-EXPO 2019
                                               Aircraft Display Form
NOTE: HAI and the GWCC require that all exhibitors displaying aircraft return this form and
the appropriately executed Certificate of Insurance (COI) to HAI by COB, Friday, Jan. 25,
2019. Failure to comply will result in your aircraft not being allowed to land at the GWCC.

See p. 2 of this form for additional submission instructions.

Exhibitor Information

Exhibiting Company Name: ________________________________________________________ Phone: ________________

Exhibitor Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________

City: _________________________________________________________ State: _____________________ Zip: _________________

Point of Contact: ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Phone: ____________________________________________ Email: ____________________________________________________

Pilot Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Pilot Phone: ________________________________ Pilot Email: ____________________________________________________

Pilot's Contact Information at HAI HELI-EXPO 2019, including Cell, Hotel Name, and Room Number:

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Make: _________________________ Model: _______________________ Registration No: _________________________

Type of Airworthiness Certificate: Std: _________ Experimental: _____________ Restricted: ____________

Exhibit Booth Number: __________________________ OR Static Space Number: _____________________________

Expected Arrival Date and Time at Fulton County Airport (FTY): ________________________________________

All aircraft flying to the GWCC will be assigned a fly-in date and time slot for arrival.

If your aircraft has an experimental or restricted category airworthiness certificate,
coordinate your arrival to and departure from the local area with the Atlanta FSDO:
         •    Albert “Al” Van Lengen, principal operations inspector, 404-474-5217 or at
              Al.VanLengen@faa.gov

HAI reserves its right to deny any aircraft access to and/or participation in any and all activities
related to HAI HELI-EXPO 2019.

                                             Form Continues on Next Page

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0               20
Aircraft Operator Information (If Not Exhibitor)

Helicopter Operator Company Name _______________________________________________________________________

Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City: _________________________________________________________ State: _____________________ Zip: _________________

Company Point of Contact: ___________________________________________________________________________________

Phone: _______________________________________________ Fax: ___________________________________________________

Email: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Aircraft Owner Information (If Other than Exhibitor or Operator Company)

Helicopter Operator Company Name _______________________________________________________________________

Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City: _________________________________________________________ State: _____________________ Zip: _________________

Company Point of Contact: ___________________________________________________________________________________

Phone: _______________________________________________ Fax: ___________________________________________________

Email: __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

You must submit this form to HAI by COB, Friday, Jan. 25, 2019, with the appropriately
executed certificate of insurance (COI).

EMAIL THIS FORM TO:               harold.summers@rotor.org

OR FAX THIS FORM TO:              1-703-683-0341 Attn: Operations Department

OR MAIL THIS FORM TO: Helicopter Association International
                      Attn: Operations Department
                      1920 Ballenger Avenue, 4th Floor
                      Alexandria, VA 22314-2898

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0               21
SAFO
                                                                                                   Safety Alert for Operators

                                                                                                   SAFO 16016
 U.S. Department
                                                                                                   DATE: 11/15/16
 of Transportation
 Federal Aviation                                                                                  Flight Standards Service
 Administration                                                                                    Washington, DC

 http://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/airline_safety/safo
 A SAFO contains important safety information and may include recommended action. SAFO content should be especially
 valuable to air carriers in meeting their statutory duty to provide service with the highest possible degree of safety in the public
 interest. Besides the specific action recommended in a SAFO, an alternative action may be as effective in addressing the safety
 issue named in the SAFO.

 Subject: Helicopter Stabilized Hover Checks Before Departure

 Purpose: This SAFO emphasizes the importance of utilizing checklists and specifically performing
 stabilized hover checks before departure.

 Background: A review of helicopter incidents and accidents over the past five years has identified
 several accidents where a loss-of-control (LOC) was encountered immediately after liftoff while light on
 the skids/gear, or from other issues caused by missed checklist items.

 Discussion: Helicopters have the unique ability to takeoff and land nearly anywhere. While this is among
 the helicopter’s greatest attributes, it also can create scenarios leaving little room for error. Several recent
 helicopter accidents have occurred as a result of pilots not bringing the helicopter to a stabilized hover
 before initiating takeoff. Rather, pilots elected to immediately and rapidly takeoff from the ground. In
 some cases, this has led to a LOC where the result was either an incident, or an accident resulting in
 significant damage to the helicopter and/or fatalities to those onboard.

 Post-accident analysis indicated that the accident sequence began with indications that were evident when
 the helicopter was light on the skids, yet the pilot elected not to abort the takeoff by reducing collective.
 Instead, the pilot continued pulling in collective (or continued manipulating the controls) resulting in a
 complete LOC. In many of these accidents, the helicopter was not properly configured for flight, either
 because a checklist item was missed, or because a checklist was not used at all by the pilot.

 In other instances, pilots have attempted to perform either maximum performance or confined area
 takeoffs without completing a hover power and systems check. One accident resulted from a pilot
 attempting a takeoff from the surface without completing a hover power check. As the aircraft lifted from
 a roof top helipad and over the edge of the rooftop, the aircraft lost altitude and crashed into a parking lot
 below. It was discovered that one of the two engines was in the “fly” position but the other engine was
 still in the idle position. If a hover check was performed before takeoff, this accident could have been
 prevented.

 Distributed by: AFS-200                                                                                          OPR: AFS-250

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0                                 22
Recommended Action: It is recommended that pilots perform the following during the takeoff sequence:

  1. Always ensure the area you are taking off from is sufficient for the conditions and the capabilities of
     the aircraft, as well as free and clear of debris that could pose a hazard to an aircraft.

  2. Using strict discipline and without compromise, pilots should ALWAYS USE an APPROPRIATE
     CHECKLIST to ensure the helicopter is properly configured for takeoff.

  3. Unless prohibited by environmental conditions such as the possibility of whiteout, brownout, etc.,
     always perform a hover check prior to takeoff. If a takeoff from the surface is required, perform the
     hover check, land, and then depart from the surface, taking the aircraft’s performance into
     consideration.

  4. When performing a vertical takeoff, raise the helicopter vertically from the surface to a normal
     hovering altitude (2 to 3 feet) with minimal lateral or longitudinal movement maintaining a constant
     heading. If at any time during initial collective pull the helicopter does not appear to be stabilized,
     ABORT the takeoff by smoothly reducing the collective.

  5. Review the FAA Helicopter Flying Handbook, Chapter 9, Vertical Takeoff to a Hover and Chapter
     10, Advanced Flight Maneuvers.
     https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/helicopter_flying_handbook/
     media/helicopter_flying_handbook.pdf

 Contact: Questions or comments regarding this SAFO should be directed to Matthew Rigsby, Office of
 Accident Investigation (AVP-100) at matthew.rigsby@faa.gov.

 Distributed by: AFS-200                                                                             OPR: AFS-250

HAI HELI-EXPO 2019 Exhibiting Aircraft & Flight Operations Guidelines / Pilot Safety Handbook V1.0                  23
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