CAT.OP.MPA.105 Use of aerodromes and operating sites

DEFINING OPERATING SITES — HELICOPTERS When defining operating sites (including infrequent or temporary sites) for the type(s) of helicopter(s) and operation(s) concerned, the operator should take account of the following:

(a)An adequate site is a site that the operator considers to be satisfactory, taking account of the applicable performance requirements and site characteristics (guidance on standards and criteria are contained in ICAO Annex 14 Volume 2 and in the ICAO Heliport Manual (Doc 9261-AN/903)).

(b)The operator should have in place a procedure for the survey of sites by a competent person. Such a procedure should take account of possible changes to the site characteristics which may have taken place since last surveyed.

(c)Sites that are pre-surveyed should be specifically specified in the operations manual. The operations manual should contain diagrams or/and ground and aerial photographs, and depiction (pictorial) and description of:

(1)the overall dimensions of the site;

(2)location and height of relevant obstacles to approach and take-off profiles, and in the manoeuvring area;

(3)approach and take-off flight paths;

(4)surface condition (blowing dust/snow/sand);

(5)helicopter types authorised with reference to performance requirements;

(6)provision of control of third parties on the ground (if applicable);

(7)procedure for activating site with land owner or controlling authority;

(8)other useful information, for example, appropriate ATS agency and frequency; and

(9)lighting (if applicable).

(d)For sites that are not pre-surveyed, the operator should have in place a procedure that enables the pilot to make, from the air, a judgment on the suitability of a site. (c)(1) to (c)(6) should be considered.

(e)Operations to non-pre-surveyed sites by night (except in accordance with SPA.HEMS.125(c)(4)) should not be permitted.