Helicopter Crew Requirements on Superyachts

Regulations set the standard, but superyacht helicopter crew are the people who make every landing safe. Before any helicopter operations take place onboard, the crew should be trained and prepared to follow a clear set of procedures.

Training and roles

• Specialist training for the crew involved in helicopter operations
• A nominated Helicopter Landing Officer to manage operations under the pilot’s direction
• At least two crew members trained for rescue and firefighting duties
• Medically trained crew on standby with crash rescue kits

Before every landing and take-off

• Remove covers from life rings and life rafts, as these can blow off and be drawn into the rotors
• Remove throw cushions, cushions and covers from the surrounding areas
• Put the required lighting arrangements in place
• Lower the railings around the helipad, where applicable
• Establish a separate, direct line of communication between the captain and the pilot

Records and contracts

Consistent records of helicopter movements support audits, insurance and incident response. Helicopter duties and training should also be reflected in the crew’s Seafarer Employment Agreements and in the yacht’s management agreement, so that responsibilities are clear before anything goes wrong. We draft both, and can review existing documents to make sure they match how the helicopter is actually used.