hostile environment

‘hostile environment’ means:

(a)an area in which:

(i)a safe forced landing cannot be accomplished because the surface is inadequate; or

(ii)the rotorcraft occupants or VCA occupants cannot be adequately protected from the elements; or

(iii)search and rescue response/capability are not provided consistent with anticipated exposure; or

(iv)there is an unacceptable risk of endangering persons or property on the ground;

(b)in any case, the following areas:

(i)for overwater operations, the open sea area north of 45 N and south of 45 S, unless any part is designated as non-hostile by the responsible authority of the State in which the operations take place; and

(ii)those parts of a congested area without adequate safe forced landing areas;