HELIPORT DESIGN. with particular reference to PPR and Hospital Heliports WORKSHOP #2 HELIPORT DESIGN ADVISORY CIRCULAR 150/5390-2B

Leverton Associates, International HELIPORT DESIGN with particular reference to PPR and Hospital Heliports WORKSHOP #2 HELIPORT DESIGN ADVISORY CIRCULAR 150/5390-2B Dr John Leverton HAI Heliport Design AC Focal Point Vice President Infrastructure Development, AHS Leverton Associates, Inc

Safety Areas

HELIPORT TERMINOLOGY FATO Safety Area TLOF FATO: Final Approach and Takeoff Area TLOF: Touchdown and Liftoff Area

SAFETY AREA REQUIREMENTS Table 2-1. Minimum VFR Safety Area Width as a Function of GA and PPR Heliport Markings TLOF perimeter marked: FATO edge marked: Std. H marking: Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No Yes Yes No Yes No GA heliports: 1/3 RD but not less than 20 (6.1 m) 1/3 RD but not less than 30 (9.1 m) ½ OL but not less than 20 (6.1 m) ½ OL but not less than 30 (9.1 m) PPR heliports: 1/3 RD but not less than 10 (3 m) ** 1/3 RD but not less than 20 (6.1 m) ** ½ OL but not less than 20 (6.1 m) ½ OL but not less than 30 (9.1 m) OL: overall length of the design helicopter RD: rotor diameter of the design helicopter ** Also applies to PPR heliports when the FATO is NOT marked. The FATO should not be marked if (a) the FATO (or part of the FATO) is a non-load bearing surface and (b) the TLOF is elevated above the level of a surrounding load bearing area.

SAFETY AREAS AC-2B: MINIMUM SAFETY AREA IF H MARKED FOR GENERAL AVIATION AND PPR HELIPORTS and STANDARD HOSPITAL SYMBOL NOT MARKED FOR HOSPITAL HELIPORTS - GENERAL AVATION 1/3 RD (30 FT MINIMUM) - HOSPITAL 1/3 RD (20 FT MINIMUM) - PPR 1/3 RD (10 FT MINIMUM) AC-2B MINIMUM SAFTEY :AREAS INCREASED IF H NOT MARKED OR STANDARD HOSPITAL SYMBOL NOT MARKED - AREA INCREASED TO 0.5 OL * with 20ft / 30 FT MINIMUM) * 1/2 Overall Length 1.5 OL/1.5D where OL or D is the overall length

TLOF MARKING IMPACT PPR GROUND LEVEL HELIPORT SAFETY AREA IS INCREASED IF TLOF NOT MAARKED TLOF NOT Marked TLOF Marked. 1/3 RD=0.25OL ½ OL or 20 ft 1/3 RD or 10 ft

TLOF MARKING IMPACT PPR GROUND LEVEL HELIPORT LOGO CAN BE USED IN PLACE OF H BUT SAFETY AREA IS INCREASED Logo Used H Marked. 1/3 RD or 20 ft 1/3 RD or 10 ft

SAFETY AREA HOSPITAL HELIPORT TLOF perimeter marked: Yes Yes No No FATO perimeter marked: Yes Yes Yes Yes Standard Hospital marking symbol: Hospital heliports: Yes 1/3 RD but not less than 10 ft (3 m)** No 1/3 RD but not less than 20 ft (6 m)** Yes ½ OL but not less than 20 ft (6 m) No ½ OL but not less than 30 ft (9 m) Table 4-1. Minimum VFR Safety Area Width as a Function Hospital Heliport Markings OL: overall length of the design helicopter RD: rotor diameter of the design helicopter ** Also applies when the FATO is NOT marked. The FATO should not be marked if (a) the FATO (or part of the FATO) is a non-load bearing surface and (b) the TLOF is elevated above the level of a surrounding load bearing area.

HELIPORT LAYOUT TLOF 1RD Safety Area 1/3 RD [0.25 D] FATO 1.5 OL [1.5 D]

SAFETY AREA TLOF 1RD Safety Area 1/3 RD FATO 1.5 OL

SAFETY AREA TLOF 1RD Safety Area 1/3 RD FATO 1.5 OL X

SAFETY AREA TLOF 1RD Safety Area ½ OL FATO 1.5 OL

MARKINGS

Touchdown/Positioning circle Marking TDP marking ** ** Often referenced as TDP marking or TDPM

TOUCHDOWN/POSITIONING CIRCLE MARKING Not in AC-2B FAA have stated it will be included in the AC-2B Update for use on the TLOF not clear if it will be a requirement for parking areas most likely it will be optional. Also so nothing in AC- 2B to say it cannot be used. In Annex 14 Vol II 3 rd Edition issued in 2009 (tranche 1), this marking is required for the TLOF and in the Tranche 2 changes, nominally agreed in 2010, it will be a requirement for parking stands (areas). In Annex 14 Vol II it is called a Touchdown/positioning marking the FAA are proposing to call it a Touchdown/Positioning Circle marking to avoid any confusion with other markings and make it clear it is a circle.

What is it? A TDP circle marking is a circle of 0.5 D (0.5 OL) inner diameter of the design helicopters with a line width of 18 ins (0.5 m) positioned in the center of the TLOF or Parking Area. ICAO Annex 14 Vol II Definition:- TOUCHDOWN/POSITIONING CIRCLE MARKING A touchdown/positioning marking shall be located so that when the pilot s seat is over the marking, the undercarriage will be inside the load-bearing area, and all parts of the helicopter will be clear of any obstacle by a safe margin.... NOT in AC-2B similar definition being considered by the FAA for inclusion in an updated version of the AC.

FATO - 1.5 OL/1.5D TLOF - 1RD Safety Area 1/3RD Touchdown/Positioning Circle Marking 1OL/1D

Perimeter markings and the H (heliport designation marking) provides the pilot with visual cues on the location of the heliport and information on the rate-ofclosure on approach etc., but does not provide information on where to touchdown on the TLOF or position the helicopter during maneuvers on the TLOF or parking area. A Touchdown/Positioning Circle marking TDPC marking provides such information. TPM markings are widely used by the offshore (oil) industry on helidecks and on heliports in many nations. It is a requirement in ICAO Annex 14 Vol II - Heliports

A TDP marking provides the pilot with information on where to position the helicopter and ensures: (i) the rotor system, and in particular the tail rotor, is clear of obstacles in the vicinity of the heliport/helideck or parking area (helicopter stand), (ii) the undercarriage is positioned within the load bearing area (TLOF) or helicopter parking area by an adequate safe margin, and (iii) the rotor system and undercarriage are stay well with the safety and load bearing area (TLOF) during air (hover) turning maneuvers.

A TDP marking provides the pilot with information on where to position the helicopter and ensures: It is of major importance when the (i) the rotor system, and in particular the tail rotor, is clear of obstacles helicopter in the vicinity using of the the heliport/helideck is of or parking the area (helicopter stand), maximum size for which the heliport (ii) the undercarriage is positioned within the load bearing was designed. area (TLOF) or helicopter parking area by an adequate safe margin, and (iii) the rotor system and undercarriage are stay well with the safety and load bearing area (TLOF) during air (hover) turning maneuvers.

S-76 RD = 44 ft (13.4 m) D = 52.5 ft (16 m) D = 1.19 RD

S-76: Landing/Parked Forward of H 1RD TLOF

S-76: Landing/Parked aft of H 1RD TLOF

S-76: Landing/Parked Forward of H turning about the rotor hub 1RD TLOF S-76: Arc of Tail Rotor turning about the rotor hub

S-76: Landing/Parked Forward of H turning about the rotor hub 1RD TLOF

Bell 427:Turning around the Rotor Hub Helicopter in true center of TLOF ** Arc of Tail Rotor size of arc 1.4 D (1.4 OL) Approx. 1.7 RD ** Unlikely in practice!

S-76: Turning about the pilot Arc of Tail Rotor 1RD TLOF

Bell 427:Turning about the pilot Arc of Tail Rotor RD = 37 ft (11.3 m) D = 42.6 ft (13 m) D = 1.15

Bell 427:Turning about the pilot Safety Area FATO TLOF Arc of Tail Rotor

S-76: Arc of Tail Rotor using TDP circle marking 1RD TLOF Diameter 1D (1 OL)

S-76 Parked over TDP circle marking 1RD TLOF S-76

S-76: Arc of Tail Rotor using TDP circle marking 1RD TLOF Diameter 1D

S-76: Parked over TDPC Marking Turning about the rotor hub 1RD TLOF Arc of Tail Rotor

Bell 427: Arc of Tail Rotor using TDP circle marking 1RD TLOF Diameter 1D

Black Hawk/S-70 Fire Hawk Study 1RD = 53.67 ft (16.36 m) UC = 29.00 ft (8.84 m) 34.48 ft (10.54 m) OL (1D) = 64.83 ft (19.76 m) Heliport Design AC Workshop - HeliExpo 2010

Black Hawk turning using the TD/P circle Tail Wheel Position (arc) Tail Wheel Location 1RD [53.67 ft/16.36 m] TD/P (Circle) marking 0.5OL (0.5D) inner diameter [32.42 ft/9.88 m] Main Rotor Tip Path

Tail Wheel Position - turning using the TD/P circle Tail Wheel Position (arc) Tail Wheel Location 1RD [53.67 ft/16.36 m] TD/P (Circle) marking 0.5OL (0.5D) inner diameter [32.42 ft/9.88 m] Main Rotor Tip Path

Black Hawk turning around the rotor axis Tail Wheel Position (arc) [Outside 1RD TLOF just inside 1D TLOF] Tail Wheel Location 1RD [53.67 ft/16.36 m] Main Rotor Tip Path 1D [64.80 ft/19.75m]

Black Hawk/S-70 ( LAI ) Study Results (i) with TDPC marking + education program.. TLOF of 1RD just OK ** Tail Wheel Location 1RD.. but use of 2UC length better... Use of 1OL (1 D) even better. [53.67 ft/16.36 m] (ii) With NO TDPC markings TLOF required 1.5RD ** just meets safety margin target. TD/P (Circle) marking 0.5OL (0.5D) inner diameter [32.42 ft/9.88 m] [Based on safety margin of 8 ft (2.5 m) ] Main Rotor Tip Path

HELIPORT DESIGN AC-2B TLOF SIZE MARKING AC-2B REQUIRES DESIGN ROTOR DIAMETER (TLOF SIZE) TO BE MARKED ON HELIPORT * *OPTIONAL FOR TURF TLOFs AND FOR PPR HELIPORTS. *REQUIRED FOR HOSPITAL HELIPORTS. Note: HAI Recommended TDPC marking not used on Turf TLOFs since it is not feasible to mark on turf FAA have informally agreed.

HELIPORT WEIGHT LIMITATION AC-2B REQUIRES MAXIMUM DESIGN WEIGHT IN TERMS OF NUMBER OF 1000LBS TO BE ADDED IF TLOF HAS A WEIGHT LIMITATION*: 3 ft (0.9 m) HIGH NUMBERS TO BE USED. VALUE INDICATED TO BE ROUNDED TO NEAREST NUMBER OF 1000LBS. [METRIC VALUES NOT TO BE USED.] * NOT REQUIRED FOR PPR HELIPORTS see Note: Note: At PPR heliports, this marking is not required. However, the PPR heliport operator should ensure that all pilots using the facility are thoroughly knowledgeable with this and any other facility limitations * REQUIRED FOR HOSPITAL HELIPORTS.

HELIPORT DESIGN AC-2B TLOF SIZE MARKING AC-2B REQUIRES DESIGN ROTOR DIAMETER (TLOF SIZE) TO BE MARKED ON HELIPORT *.. AND MAXIMUM DESIGN WEIGHT IN TERMS OF NUMBER OF 1000LBS TO BE ADDED IF TLOF HAS A WEIGHT LIMITATION**. *OPTIONAL FOR TURF TLOFs AND FOR PPR HELIPORTS. *REQUIRED FOR HOSPITAL HELIPORTS. ** NOT REQUIRED FOR PPR HELIPORTS see Note (following209 g): Note: At PPR heliports, this marking is not required. However, the PPR heliport operator should ensure that all pilots using the facility are thoroughly knowledgeable with this and any other facility limitations * *REQUIRED FOR HOSPITAL HELIPORTS. [Problem if Turf heliport]

TLOF H MARKING AC-2B: Height of H for GA Heliports lesser of 0.6 TLOF length, 1.2 TLOF width i.e. for 50 ft (15 m) square TLOF, height of H = 30 ft (9 m). Maximum value: General Aviation - 60 ft (18.3 m) PPR - 10 ft (3 m) Transport 75 ft (22.9 m) Hospital Heliports require 10 ft (3 m) H s part of hospital standard marking. FAA, in the AC-2B Update, have stated they will standardize on 10 ft (3m) H for GA and PPR heliports.

TLOF MARKINGS 12 in (30 cm) AC-2B Weight (mass)/rotor Size Limit Marking Located in lower right-hand corner

WEIGHT (MASS) / TLOF SIZE MARKINGS Black Numbers White Background Weight (mass) in 1000 s of lbs Rotor Diameter in ft 3 ft (0.9 m) High Numbers

NEW MARKINGS New markings: standardized H - D to be added weight(mass)/size box. FAA Draft Proposal Heliport Design AC Workshop - HeliExpo 2010

TLOF MARKINGS AC-2B Weight (mass) Rotor Size Limit Marking Located on right-hand side Heliport Design Workshop - HeliExpo 2008

HOSPITAL MARKING TLOF 1RD minimum 40 ft (12 m) AC-2B Weight (mass)/rotor Size Limit Marking Located in lower right-hand corner Heliport Design Workshop - HeliExpo 2008

HOSPITAL MARKING Red or White if white, cross should have red border

HOSPITAL MARKING Alternative Optional Markings recommended for areas that experience snow and ice - red surface absorbs more heat Heliport Design Workshop - HeliExpo 2008

HOSPITAL MARKING AC-2B Weight (mass) Rotor Size Limit Marking Located in the right-hand quadrant

MARKING PROBLEM PPR GROUND LEVEL HELIPORT Problem: If Paved Area of 2U/C is used than H (10 ft) could be similar size to the Paved Area?? No FAA guidance but size will need to be adjusted. TLOF NOT Marked TLOF Marked.

MARKING PROBLEM PPR ELEVATED HELIPORT Where can/should the WEIGHT (MASS) -ROTOR SIZE LIMIT BOX ** be located if required by STATE or my User.? it is required on the TLOF but there is no space!! TLOF 2UC DLB Area if 30 inches (76 cm) or LESS above Surrounding Area of 1RD [Surrounding Area - GEA ] FAA are looking at this issue!!! ** OPTIONAL FOR PPR

FATO/TLOF PERIMETER MARKINGS AC-2B: - TLOF: 12 in (30 cm) wide white line or closely spaced inground makers *. - FATO: 12 in (30 cm) wide white dashed line or in-ground markers*. While lines may be outlined with a 6 in (15 cm) wide line of contrasting color. In-ground makers 1ft (30 cm) x 5 ft (1.5 m). Note : Markings are placed inside the TLOF and FATO areas

DIMENSIONS FATO Safety Area TLOF Heliport Design AC Workshop - HeliExpo 2010 TLOF Size

PROTECTION ZONE AC-2B General Aviation Heliports Par 205. PROTECTION ZONE. The protection zone is the area under the approach/departure path starting at the FATO perimeter and extending out for a distance of 280 feet (85.3 m) as illustrated in Figure 2-8. The heliport proponent should own or control the property containing the protection zone. This control should include the ability to clear incompatible objects and to preclude the congregation of people. For PPR heliports, a protection zone is optional. For General Aviation heliport, air easement rights may be one option to control use of the ground within the protection zone. OPTIONAL FOR PPR HELIPORTS NOT REQUIRED FOR HOSPITAL HELIPORTS

PROTECTION ZONE General Aviation Heliport PPR Optional 280 ft (85 m) The heliport proponent should own or control the property containing the protection zone. Note: NOT Required on Hospital Heliports. Heliport Design Workshop - HeliExpo 2008

HOSPITAL HELIPORT AC-2B REQUIREMENTS HOSPITAL HELIPORTS AC-2B Chapter 4 One (1) Flight Allowed. Protection Zone not required. HOSPITAL GENERAL HELIPORTS AVIATION WITH FEDERAL HELIPORTS FUNDS AC-2B Chapter 2 [GA Heliports] Two (2) Flight paths separation based on wind direction or 135 or more apart. Protection Zone (280 ft/85 m) required. Chapter 4 Chapter 2

TOTAL LENGTH AC-2B TWO FLIGHT PATHS: RECOMMENDED FOR PRIVATE USE/PPR AND HOSPITAL HELIPORTS, REQUIRED FOR GENERAL AVIATION AND TRANSPORT HELIPORTS. PROTECTION ZONE: - PRIVATE USE/PPR OPTIONAL (NOT REQUIRED) - HOSPITAL NOT REQUIRED - 280 FT. GENERAL AVIATION - 400 FT. TRANSPORT TOTAL LENGTH (ASSUMING FLIGHT PATHS IN STRAIGHT LINE) - FATO + 2 x SAFETY ZONE WIDTH + 2 x PROTECTION ZONE

APPROXIMATE RELATIONSHIPS BASIC SIZE: FATO + 2 x SAFETY ZONE WIDTH FATO = 1.5 D [1.5 X OVERALL LENGTH (OL)] TAIL ROTOR SIZE: 1/6 TO 1/5 RD D = 1.16 RD TO 1.2 RD ASSUME D = 1.2 RD THAN 1.5 D FATO = 1.8 RD and 1 RD = 0.83 D FATO + 2 x SAFETY ZONE* = 1.5D (1.8 RD) + 2 x 1/3 RD * = 2.46 [2.5 RD Approx.] = 2D (2OL) ** * Safety Zone of minimum value ** Same size as in Annex 14 Vol II for Performance Class 2 and 3 Heliports.

APPROX. TOTAL SIZE APPROX. TOTAL LENGTH OF HELIPORT PRIVATE USE/PPR 2D (2.4 RD) HOSPITAL 2D (2.4RD) GENERAL AVIATION 2D (2.5 RD) + 560 ft; TRANSPORT - 2.5 RD + 800 ft [Minimum 1060 ft]; APPROX. TOTAL WIDTH OF HELIPORT PRIVATE USE/PPR - 2.5 RD HOSPITAL 2D (2.5 RD) GENERAL AVIATION 2D (2.5 RD) TRANSPORT - 2D (2.5 RD) [Minimum 160 ft ]

MINIMUM HELIPORT DIMENSIONS PPR + Hospital

LIGHTING

TLOF PERIMETER LIGHTS GROUND LEVEL HELIPORT AC-2B Par 210 a Ground-level TLOF Perimeter Lights. Flush green lights should define the TLOF perimeter. A minimum of four flush light fixtures is recommended per side of a square or rectangular TLOF. (PPR facilities may have a minimum of three flush light fixtures on each side of a square or rectangular TLOF.) A light should be located at each corner with additional lights uniformly spaced between the corner lights, with a maximum interval of 25 feet (7.6 m) between lights. An even number of lights (at least eight lights should be used) uniformly spaced with a maximum interval of 25 feet (7.6 m) between lights, may be used to define a circular TLOF. Flush lights should be located within 1 foot (30 cm) (inside or outside) of the TLOF perimeter.

PERIMETER LIGHTING COLOR: GREEN.* [Previously Yellow in AC-2A] GROUND LEVEL - FATO OR TLOF FATO Raised or Flush ** TLOF PPR and HOSPITAL : Flush or Raised depending on FATO load bearing characteristics. TLOF GA: Flush FLOODLIGHTS ALLOWED ELEVATED - FATO OR TLOF *UNLESS NEAR AIRPORT RUNWAY LIGHTS WHEN YELLOW LIGHTS CAN STILL BE USED. ** Flush and Raised Lights are terms used in AC-2B Flush lights are often referred to as in-set lights

PERIMETER LIGHTING COLOR: GREEN.* [Previously yellow in AC-2A] GROUND LEVEL - FATO OR TLOF FATO Raised or Flush ** TLOF PPR and HOSPITAL : Flush or Raised depending on FATO load bearing characteristics. TLOF GA: Flush FLOODLIGHTS ALLOWED ELEVATED - FATO OR TLOF *UNLESS NEAR AIRPORT RUNWAY LIGHTS WHEN YELLOW LIGHTS CAN STILL BE USED. ** Flush and Raised Lights are terms used in AC-2B Flush lights are often referred to as in-set lights

NUMBER OF LIGHTS Requirements for both FATO and TLOF PRIVATE USE/PPR and HOSPITAL HELIPORTS Square or Rectangular 3 per side - one at each corner: 25 ft (7.6 m) max. interval. Circular Evenly spaced: at least 8 lights - 25 ft (7.6 m) max. interval GENERAL AVIATION/GA HELIPORTS Square or Rectangular 4 per side - one at each corner: 25ft (7.6 m) max. interval. Circular Evenly spaced: at least 8 lights - 25 ft (7.6 m) max. interval Note: In case of TLOF 7.6 m is quoted as 8 m in 410 a. (Hospital Heliports)! Heliport Design AC Workshop - HeliExpo 2010

TLOF PERIMETER LIGHTS PPR and HOSPITAL GROUND LEVEL Flush or Raised depending on the FATO characteristics If FATO load bearing FLUSH TLOF perimeter lights If FATO non load bearing (i.e. when only TLOF Load Bearing), ** TLOF perimeter lights can be:- Flush lights (Recommended in AC-2B) or Raised lights limited to 2 in (5cm) penetration above TLOF surface height ** this is some what confusing: the FATO can be solid (i.e. technically load bearing) but if the FATO is not designated as a load bearing area which could be used by the helicopter, it is assumed to be nonload bearing and only TLOF lights required: raised TLOF lights can be used!

FATO PERIMETER LIGHTS FATO Flush lights within 1 ft (30 cm) of FATO edge or raised lights, no more than 8 in (20 cm) in height, located 10 ft (3 m) out from the FATO edge. RECOMMENDATION [Par 210 c (1)] At a distance during nighttime operations, a square or rectangular pattern of FATO perimeter lights provides the pilot with better visual cues than a circular pattern. Thus, a square or rectangular pattern of FATO perimeter lights is preferable even if the TLOF is circular.

FATO PERIMETER LIGHTS FATO Flush lights within 1 ft (30 cm) of FATO edge or raised lights, no more than 8 in (20 cm) in height, located 10 ft (3 m) out from the FATO edge. RECOMMENDATION [Par 210 c (1)] At a However distance during AC-2B does nighttime not address operations, this in a square or rectangular pattern of FATO perimeter lights provides connection the pilot with with the better TLOF visual perimeter cues than lights a circular...and pattern. on most Thus, PPR a and square Hospital or rectangular Heliports pattern there of FATO are only perimeter TLOF perimeter lights is preferable lights! even if the TLOF is circular.

HELIPORT LIGHTING 210. HELIPORT LIGHTING. For night operations, the TLOF, the FATO, taxiways, taxi routes, and the windsock need to be lighted, as described within this paragraph. a. Ground-level TLOF Perimeter Lights. Flush green lights should define the TLOF perimeter. b. Elevated TLOF - Perimeter Lights. The TLOF perimeter should be lit with green lights c. Load-bearing FATO-Perimeter Lights. Green lights should define the perimeter of the load bearing FATO..

TLOF PERIMETER LIGHTS PPR HELIPORTS AC-2B Par 210. a Flush lights are recommended for PPR facilities. But raised green omni-directional lights may be used if only the TLOF is load bearing. The raised lights should be located outside and within 10 foot (3m) of the edge of the TLOF and should not penetrate a horizontal plane at the TLOF elevation by more than 2 inches (5 cm).

PERIMETER LIGHTING HOSPITAL HELIPORTS AC-2B Par 410 a. Ground-level TLOF Perimeter Lights. Flush green lights should define the TLOF perimeter. A minimum of three flush light fixtures is recommended per side of a square or rectangular TLOF. A light should be located at each corner with additional lights uniformly spaced between the corner lights with a maximum interval of 25 feet (7.6 m) between lights. An even number of lights (at least eight should be used) uniformly spaced, with a maximum interval of 25 feet (7.6 m) between lights may be used to define a circular TLOF. Flush lights should be located within 1 foot (30 cm) (inside or outside) of the TLOF perimeter. Figure 4-13 illustrates these lights. If only the TLOF is load bearing, flush lights are recommended, but raised green omni-directional lights may be used. Raised lights should be located outside and within 10 foot (3m) of the edge of the TLOF and should not penetrate a horizontal plane at the TLOF s elevation by more than 2 inches (5 cm).

PERIMETER LIGHTING GROUND LEVEL GA HELIPORTS 8 in (20 cm) ** AC-2B TLOF -Flush ONLY FATO - Flush OR Raised TLOF FATO Perimeter Lights: TLOF and load bearing FATO 10 ft (3 m) ** Height not defined relate to TLOF or FATO surface! Issue being address by HAI with FAA NOT TO SCALE

TLOF PERIMETER LIGHTING PPR +HOSPITAL HELIPORTS AC-2B TLOF - Flush OR Raised FATO - Non-Load Bearing 2 in (5 cm) TLOF NOT TO SCALE 10 ft (3 m)

TLOF PERIMETER LIGHTS FATO Surface (Grass) TLOF (Helipad) Light Concrete Pad (Sloped to aid drainage) Ground area sunken so that light can be seen from distance. Suggested angle (at least) ± 30

TLOF PERIMETER LIGHTS FATO surface 2 inches Slope grass (soil) away from TLOF (helipad) TLOF (Helipad) Decrease height of grass (soil) so full light area can be seen from distance Concrete pad for mounting light fixture slope pad to provide drainage

TLOF PERIMETER LIGHTS Photo provided by Ray Syms, Raymond A.Syms & Associates Heliport Design Consultants

PERIMETER LIGHTS ELEVATED HELIPORT TLOF Note (Par 210 c) states the Par 210 b also applies to FATO if Elevated FATO is load bearing with safety net.

Location of Lights Square FATO and TLOF Interpretation of AC-2B Para 210/410 by some, including some within the FAA, is that, if FATO is load bearing, both FATO and TLOF perimeter lights are required. Preferred Flight Direction

Location of Lights Preferred Flight Direction Square FATO and TLOF Interpretation of AC-2B Para 210/410 by some, including some in FAA, is that both FATO and TLOF perimeter lights are required. Not correct: If FATO load bearing both can be used but Para 210/410 states the FATO, the TLOF... need to be lighted and Para 210/410 g states Floodlights may be used to illuminate the TLOF, the FATO... hence both NOT required!!

AC-2B Par 210 g FLOODLIGHTS Floodlights. Floodlights may be used to illuminate the TLOF, the FATO, and/or the parking area. To eliminate the need for tall poles, these floodlights may be mounted on adjacent buildings. Care should be taken, however, to place floodlights clear of the TLOF, the FATO, the Safety Area, and the approach/ departure surfaces, and any required transitional surfaces. Care should be taken to ensure that floodlights and their associated hardware do not constitute an obstruction hazard. Floodlights should be aimed down and provide a minimum of 3-foot candles (32 lux) of illumination on the apron surface. Floodlights that might interfere with pilot vision during takeoff and landings should be capable of being turned off.

Location of Lights Square FATO and TLOF Preferred Flight Direction

Location of Lights Square FATO and TLOF OR Preferred Flight Direction

Location of Lights Square FATO and TLOF Remember: It is assumed that there is adequate ambient light for FATO and TLOF perimeter lines to be clearly visible. Preferred Flight Direction

Location of Lights Square FATO and TLOF GA Heliport Load Bearing FATO - Min number 4 * TLOF Ground Level Min Number 4 * TLOF Elevated Number/Separation not stated: assume same as for Ground Level PPR Heliport Load Bearing FATO - Min number 3 * TLOF Ground Level Min Number 3 * TLOF Elevated Number/Separation not stated: assume same as for Ground Level Preferred Flight Direction ----------------- All cases: Max separation 25 ft (7.6 m) [also stated as 8 m] * On square or rectangular heliports one (1) light is required at each corner

Square FATO and TLOF GA Heliport Load Bearing FATO - Min number 4 * TLOF Ground Level Min Number 4 * TLOF Elevated Number/Separation not stated: assume same as for Ground Level Preferred Flight Direction LAI Recommendation PPR Heliport Use more than minimum Load Bearing FATO - Min number 3 * number TLOF Ground Level Min Number 3 * use at least 4 - ideally 5 TLOF Elevated Number/Separation not since stated: assume 3 does same as not for Ground define Level a line very well ----------------- All cases: Max separation 25 ft (7.6 m) [also stated as 8 m] * On square or rectangular heliports one (1) light is required at each corner

FATO Perimeter Lights. AC-2B 210 c Load-bearing FATO-Perimeter Lights.. An even number of lights (at least eight lights should be used) uniformly spaced, with a maximum interval of 25 feet (8 m) between lights, may be used to define a circular FATO. (1) At a distance during nighttime operations, a square or rectangular pattern of FATO perimeter lights provides the pilot with better visual cues than a circular pattern. Thus, a square or rectangular pattern of FATO perimeter lights is preferable even if the TLOF is circular.

Location of Lights Circular FATO and TLOF LAI Recommendation Use more than minimum number...unless very small heliport Preferred Flight Direction

Location of Lights Circular FATO Lights on located on straight lines LAI Position: There is merit of mounting lights in straight lines, since this provide better visual cues and information to pilots on drift displacement, closure rate, Total 16 ~ 5 /side etc. Preferred Flight Direction Note: This is also stated in Annex14 Volume II - Heliports

Location of Lights Circular FATO Lights on located on straight lines LAI Position: There is merit of mounting lights in straight lines, since this provide better visual cues and. but currant wording limits FATO information flush perimeter to pilots light on to drift with 1 ft (30 cm) of FATO perimeter or displacement, raised perimeter closure lights rate, at a fixed distance of 10 ft (3 m) from Total FATO 16 ~ perimeter. 5 /side etc. HAI have asked FAA to clarify text in AC-2B update as it relates to this Preferred Flight Direction Note: This is also stated in Annex14 Volume II - aspect Heliports

LOCATION OF LIGHTS Square FATO and TLOF Only load bearing Perimeter lights addressed in AC-2B. Implied that FATO Perimeter lights should NOT be used if FATO is non-load bearing. This will normally be the case for PPR ground level heliport's and often the case for ground level hospital heliport it will also normally be the case for elevated PPR and hospital heliports Preferred Flight Direction

Location of Lights Circular FATO and TLOF No mention of use of straight lines for TLOF if the TLOF is circular or if only TLOF has perimeter lights Some disagreement in this case: some say it is better to put the lights on the perimeter of the TLOF others support having lights on straight lines.. Preferred Flight Direction

Location of Lights Circular FATO and TLOF LAI supports the latter view - the edge(s) of the TLOF must be clearly marked and visible FAA are looking at this aspect. Preferred Flight Direction

Location of Lights Circular FATO and TLOF Use of flight path alignment lights will provide some additional visual cues Raymond A, Syms & Associates, Inc Preferred Flight Direction

LOCATION OF LIGHTS Square FATO and TLOF Some say two sets of lights are confusing and reduce visual cues and information to pilots on drift displacement, closure rate, etc. Preferred Flight Direction

LOCATION OF LIGHTS Square FATO and TLOF Some say two sets of lights (ie FATO and TLOF) are confusing and reduce visual cues and information to pilots on drift displacement, closure rate, etc. some say particularly true if minimum number of lights is used. Preferred Flight Direction

LOCATION OF LIGHTS Preferred Flight Direction Square FATO and TLOF Some say two sets of lights are confusing and reduce visual cues and information to pilots on drift displacement, closure rate, etc. LAI does NOT support this view: thus use FATO and/or TLOF perimeter lights.. more lights per side.. and there is advantages in using the perimeter of the FATO since the FATO size is larger and it can be seen from a greater distance. [FATO is 1.8 times larger than TLOF]

LOCATION OF LIGHTS Square FATO and TLOF Only load bearing Perimeter lights addressed in AC-2B. Implied that FATO Perimeter lights should NOT be used if FATO is non-load bearing. [Load bearing FATO required for GA Heliports.] Preferred Flight Direction

Location of Lights Circular FATO and TLOF For GA circular heliports difference of opinion.. Some support the case that TLOF should have perimeter lights in a circle since FATO lights provide neceeary. Preferred Flight Direction

Location of Lights Circular FATO and TLOF Thus use FATO or TLOF perimeter lights.. and more lights than min per side The raised lights should be located outside and within 10 foot (3m) of the edge of the TLOF and should not penetrate a horizontal plane at the TLOF elevation by more than 2 inches (5 cm). Preferred Flight Direction

FAA Lighting Standards AC-2B States:- 210/410. HELIPORT LIGHTING. For night operations, the TLOF, the FATO, taxiways, taxi routes, and the windsock need to be lighted, as described within this paragraph. AC 150/5340-28, Low Visibility Taxiway Lighting Systems; AC 150/5340-24, Runway and Taxiway Edge Lighting System; and AC 150/5345-46, Specification for Runway and Taxiway Light Fixtures; contain technical guidance on lighting equipment and installation details. Heliport lighting ACs are available at the Airports web site http://faa.gov.arp. There is however no direct information in the fixed wing taxiway ACs quoted or any specific Heliport lighting ACs on the FAA web site!! FAA currently conducting light research to resolve this problem.

Light Intensity Standards There are several manufacturers of raised and flush/in-set heliport perimeter lights and many of these state their lights meet, or are compliant with, the standards of AC 150/5390-2B. There are however NO FAA heliport lighting standards! [Heliport light intensity requirements currently being studied for the first time by the FAA.] There are specific standards defined in ICAO Annex 14 Volume II heliports for both FATO and TLOF perimeter lights: many manufactures will claim they meet the ICAO standards but normally they are not independent third party evaluations. Note: Annex 14 Volume II TLOF intensity Standards are suitable but the Annex 14 FATO intensity standards are generally considered too high : also they limits apply to true night or are not applicable to poor weather/dusk-dawn operations when higher intensities required! [Currently being addressed by the ICAO HDWG Visual Aids Sub-group.]

Light Intensity Standards There a several manufacturers of raised and flush/in-set heliport perimeter light and many of these state their lights meet, or are compliant with, the standards of AC 150/5390-2B. There are however NO FAA heliport lighting standards! [Currently being studied for the first time by the FAA.] There are however specific standards defined in ICAO Annex 14 Volume II heliports for both FATO and TLOF perimeter lights: many manufactures will claim they meet these standards but normally they are not independent third party evaluations. Note: Annex 14 Volume II TLOF Standards generally considered suitable but FATO standards considered to high : also some confusion if they apply to night or are applicable to poor weather/dusk-dawn operations. [Currently being address by the ICAO Visual Aids Sub-group.]

OTHER LIGHTS HELIPORT INDENTIFICATION BEACON AC-2A No mention for Private Use - Recommended for General Aviation and Transport Heliports. AC-2B Optional for General Aviation (including PPR) and Hospital Heliports. [Required for Transport Heliports] TAXIWAY LIGHTS: No real change but AC-2B more detailed. LANDING DIRECTIONAL LIGHTS Optional but defined in detail in AC-2B.

HELIPORT IDENTIFICATION BEACON AC-2B Par 210 b Heliport Identification Beacon. A heliport identification beacon is optional equipment. It should be installed when it is needed to aid the pilot in visually locating the heliport. When installed, the beacon, flashing white/green/yellow at the rate of 30 to 45 flashes per minute, should be located on or close to the heliport. Guidance on heliport beacons is found in AC 150/5345-12, Specification for Airport and Heliport Beacon. There may be merit in making operation of the beacon controllable from the approaching helicopter to ensure that it is on only when required.

Landing Direction Lights AC-2B Par 210 d. Landing direction lights are an optional feature to be installed when it is necessary to provide directional guidance. Landing direction lights are a configuration of five yellow, omnidirectional L-861 lights on the centerline of the preferred approach/ departure path. These lights are spaced at 15-foot (5 m) intervals beginning at a point not less than 20 feet (6 m) and not more than 60 feet (18 m) from the TLOF perimeter and extending outward in the direction of the preferred approach/ departure path, as illustrated in Figure 2-27.

LANDING DIRECTION LIGHTS FATO TLOF Not less than 20 ft (6 m) or more than 60 ft (18 m) 15 ft (4.6 m) 15 ft (4.6 m) 15 ft (4.6 m) 15 ft (4.6 m) Very useful/helpful at some locations I recommend they are considered for Hospital Heliports and - if space not available - consider reduced separation distance down to 5 ft (1.5 m)

FLIGHT PATH ALIGNMENT ARROWS AND LIGHTS

FLIGHT PATH ALIGNMENT ARROWS AND LIGHTS Raymond A, Syms & Associates, Inc

FLIGHT PATH ALIGNMENT ARROWS AND LIGHTS

FLIGHT PATH ALIGNMENT ARROWS AND LIGHTS Siemens Airfield Solutions/ADB

FLIGHT PATH ALIGNMENT GUIDANCE MARKING AND LIGHTING Markings (Arrows) Only

FLIGHT PATH ALIGNMENT GUIDANCE MARKING AND LIGHTING Lights Only

FLIGHT PATH ALIGNMENT GUIDANCE MARKING AND LIGHTING Markings (Arrows) and Lights Lights

FLIGHT PATH ALIGNMENT GUIDANCE MARKING AND LIGHTING Draft FAA Proposal HAI supports the introduction of flight path alignment guidance marking and lighting but are proposing that contrasting colors can be used for the arrows and that the lights may be green. Note: ICAO HDWG Accepted US/FAA proposal and it will to be in (new) Tranche 2 ICAO Annex 14 Vol II

ELEVATED HELIPORTS - TURBULENCE High level of turbulence over TLOF Clean air flow over TLOF TLOF NO Airgap TLOF on top of building Airgap TLOF above top of building

ELEVATED HELIPORTS - TURBULENCE AC-2B 212 c Turbulence. Air flowing around and over buildings, stands of trees, terrain irregularities, etc. can create turbulence that may affect helicopter operations. (Reference 41 of Appendix 4.) The following actions may be taken in selecting a site to minimize the effects of turbulence: (1) Ground-level Heliports. Helicopter operations from sites immediately adjacent to buildings and other large objects are subjected to air turbulence effects caused by such features. Therefore, it may be necessary to locate the TLOF away from such objects in order to minimize air turbulence in the vicinity of the FATO and the approach/ departure paths. (2) Elevated Heliports. Elevating heliports 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above the level of the roof will generally minimize the turbulent effect of air flowing over the roof edge. While elevating the platform helps reduce or eliminate the air turbulence effects, a safety net may be required (see paragraph 201d (4)).

ELEVATED HELIPORTS - TURBULENCE FAA Update Proposed Wording Elevated Heliports. Elevating heliports 6 feet (1.8 m) or more above the level of the roof will generally minimize the turbulent effect of air flowing over the roof edge. While elevating the platform helps reduce or eliminate the air turbulence effects, a safety net may be required. NOTE 1: If an air gap or some other turbulence mitigating design measure is warranted but not practical, operational limitations may need to be considered under certain wind conditions. NOTE 2: If an air gap is included in the design it should be kept free at all times of significant objects that would obstruct the airflow. 6ft (1,8 m) is considered by many to be an absolute minimum - in Tranche 2 of ICAO Annex 14 Vol II it will state As a general rule, except for shallow superstructures of three stories or less, a sufficient air-gap will be at-least 3m (i.e. 10 ft). FAA Technical Report FAA/RD-84/25, Evaluating Wind Flow Around Buildings on Heliport Placement addresses the wind s effect on helicopter operations.

End of this section. MORE TO COME