Let's talk "Off Yacht" helicopter activities for a min...

Operating helicopters in remote locations is the pinnacle of a helicopters ability to connect people with places others will never reach!

This brings unique challenges and responsibilities for maritime aviation operators and crew. While regulations vary between aviation authorities, the emphasis on safety and preparedness remains universal. At the heart of this is the risk assessment, which empowers operators to adapt best practices (or SOPs) to their unique missions and environments.

Best Practices for Remote Landing Operations:

1️⃣ Trained Crew Members:
Having a trained crew member on hand at the landing zone provides critical oversight. This individual can:

1. Marshal the aircraft and assist guests.
2. Manage communication with the yacht or base station.
3. Oversee essential survival and stranding gear to ensure readiness for unforeseen events.

2️⃣ Landing Zone Selection:
The choice of remote landing location should be more than just operational convenience.

Operators must ask:

1. If the helicopter experiences a technical failure ("goes tech"), can passengers or crew reach the shoreline to egress via the yacht’s tender or other means?
2. Does the geographical and environmental situation allow for a safe alternative plan?
3. Are there natural or man-made hazards (e.g., terrain, wildlife, or weather conditions) that could escalate a breakdown into a critical incident?

3️⃣ Firefighting Preparedness:
While fire suppression capabilities might not always be mandated for remote sites, they deserve serious consideration. If the operator isn’t certified to transport Dangerous Goods, this limits the type and volume of firefighting media the helicopter can bring to the site.
Proper training and equipment for basic fire response can make a significant difference in remote environments where external support may not be available.

Preparedness is Key:
Conducting thorough risk assessments and planning for contingencies are not just regulatory checkboxes, they’re about ensuring the safety of everyone involved. By aligning with best practices in maritime aviation such as deploying trained personnel, ensuring basic firefighting readiness, and carefully selecting landing zones, operators can elevate their operations and set the standard for safety in remote helicopter operations.