Helicopter Landing in Confined Areas

Introduction

• Helicopters are designed to take off and land almost anywhere.
• Importance of landing in confined areas for missions.
• High area reconnaissance (recon) is crucial.

High Area Reconnaissance

• Conducted at 300 to 500 feet above landing zone (LZ).
• Army's SS Bat W Method:
  • Size: Determine if the LZ is big enough for the helicopter.
    • Use known objects (e.g., trailers, cars) to gauge size.
  • Suitability: Consider slopes, surface conditions, loose gravel, dust, snow.
  • Barriers: Identify trees, hills, buildings, towers, wires.
  • Approach and Departure Direction: Plan approach and takeoff directions.
  • Touchdown Point: Select a specific landing point.
  • Winds: Evaluate wind conditions and potential changes.

Alternative Methods

• Navy's SWEEP Method:
  • S: Size, Shape, Surface, Suitability.
  • W: Winds.
  • E: Elevation (Pressure, Density, AGL Altitude).
  • E: Egress (Exit strategy).
  • P: Power available vs. required.
• FAA's SWOT Method:
  • Suitability
  • Winds
  • Obstacles
  • Approach and Departure Axis
  • Touchdown Point

Low Reconnaissance

• Done on approach path to a decision point.
• Decide to commit to landing or go around before effective translational lift (ETL).

Approach Techniques

1. Steep Approach:

   • 15-degree descent angle.
   • Maintains visual contact with touchdown point, but requires more power.
   • Risk of loss of tail rotor effectiveness.

2. Low Level/Terrain Flight Approach:

   • Fly at treetop level.
   • Use terrain features to clear tail.
   • Maintain treetop altitude until aligning with a feature.

3. L-Turn Technique:

   • Fly perpendicular to final inbound heading, parallel to obstacles.
   • Execute an L-shaped turn to touchdown.
   • Maintain visual clearance of obstacles.

Planning and Safety

• Always have a go-around plan with specific heading and power settings.
• Performance planning is essential, especially when picking up additional weight.
• Avoid scenarios with no escape options.

Conclusion

• Importance of confined area approaches and LZ analysis.
• Encourage feedback and sharing of other techniques.
• Reminder to like and subscribe for more lessons.

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These notes summarize Jacob's presentation on confined area helicopter landing techniques from 'Helicopter Lessons in 10 minutes or less.'