ED Decision 2023/007/R
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.
EASA AMC1 CAT.OP.MPA.105 defines helicopter operating site adequacy, survey procedures, operations manual content for pre-surveyed sites, pilot air judgment for non-pre-surveyed sites, and night operation restrictions.
* Summary by Aviation.Bot - Always consult the original document for the most accurate information.
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