Claude Vuichard has just released a new video on how to avoid a collision of the main rotor with obstacles. It's a great reminder of the importance of situational awareness and hazard avoidance when flying helicopters.
The Main Problems
There are a few main problems that can lead to a collision of the main rotor with obstacles:
Optical illusion: The pilot's perspective can be distorted by the optical illusion of the main rotor blades. This can make it appear as if the blades are closer to an obstacle than they really are.
Distance from the rotor mast: The distance between the rotor mast and the pilot's eye point can also affect the risk of a collision. The greater the distance, the greater the risk.
Rotor radius: The smaller the rotor radius, the greater the risk of a collision.This is because the blades extend further out from the helicopter on smaller rotors.
Type of helicopter: The type of helicopter can also affect the risk of a collision. Some helicopters have longer rotor blades than others, which increases the risk of a collision.
Fuel stations: Fuel stations are a common type of obstacle that can lead to a collision. This is because helicopters often land and taxi close to fuel stations,and the pilot may not be aware of the size of the fuel station or the location of the fuel tanks.
Vuichard Safety Tips
Vuichard's video provides a number of safety tips that can help pilots avoid a collision of the main rotor with obstacles. These tips include:
Be aware of the optical illusion: Pilots should be aware that the optical illusion can make it appear as if the blades are closer to an obstacle than they really are. They should compensate for this illusion by taking extra care when approaching obstacles.
Minimize the distance from the rotor mast: Pilots should try to minimize the distance between the rotor mast and their eye point. This will help them to better judge the distance between the blades and an obstacle.
Be aware of the rotor radius: Pilots should be aware of the rotor radius of the helicopter they are flying. This will help them to avoid obstacles that are too close to the blades.
Be aware of the type of helicopter:Pilots should be aware of the type of helicopter they are flying and the potential risks of a collision. For example, pilots should be extra careful when flying helicopters with long rotor blades.
Avoid fuel stations: Pilots should avoid landing or taxiing close to fuel stations unless there are clear markings for helicopters from the airport authority.
Use a marshaller: If possible, pilots should use a qualified marshaller to guide them when approaching obstacles. The marshaller can help the pilot to avoid obstacles by signaling the position of the rotor blades.
Land in the fall line: Whenever possible, pilots should land a helicopter in the fall line. This will help to avoid the risk of the helicopter rolling over.
Additional Tips
In addition to the tips provided by Vuichard, there are a few other things that pilots can do to avoid a collision of the main rotor with obstacles:
Use a checklist: Pilots should use a checklist to help them identify and avoid potential hazards.
Be familiar with the area: Pilots should be familiar with the area they are flying in, including the location of obstacles.
Use night vision goggles: If flying at night, pilots should use night vision goggles to help them see obstacles more clearly.
Conclusion
By following these tips, pilots can help to reduce the risk of a collision of the main rotor with obstacles. It is important to remember that situational awareness and hazard avoidance are essential skills for all helicopter pilots.
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