Superyacht Helicopter Operations

A helicopter extends a superyacht’s reach like nothing else: guests ashore in minutes, remote anchorages within easy range and a different way to arrive. It also brings two regulatory worlds together. Superyacht helicopter operations sit under the maritime rules of the flag state, the Classification Society and SOLAS, and under the aviation rules that govern the aircraft and its flights.

Jaffa & Co advises on both superyachts and aviation, which puts us in an unusual position to look at the whole picture. We help owners, managers and captains understand what their helicopter operations require, put the right documents and certificates in place, and avoid the regulatory surprises that can follow a small change in how flights are offered.

The key distinction: private or commercial

Private and commercial helicopter operations sit in materially different regulatory positions. Where only the owner, family and guests fly, and nobody pays, the position is relatively straightforward. Once flights are paid for, bundled into a charter or marketed to charter guests, the operation can become commercial air transport and further requirements apply. Getting this distinction right is the starting point for everything else.

What needs to be in place

• Helideck approvals. Class approval of the plans, flag state certification and the fire safety equipment required by SOLAS.
• Refuelling arrangements. Approved bunkering and fuel storage plans if the helicopter is to be refuelled onboard.
• Stowage and hangar facilities. Tie-downs, safety nets, markings and a hangar designed for life at sea.
• Trained crew. A Helicopter Landing Officer, firefighting and medical cover, and clear procedures for every landing and take-off.

How we help

• Reviewing the yacht’s helideck certification and Class approvals against her flag and intended use
• Advising whether planned flights are private or commercial, and structuring them accordingly
• Aligning charter agreements, marketing and pricing with the helicopter’s regulatory position
• Building helideck, hangar and refuelling requirements into construction and refit contracts
• Coordinating with the flag state, Class, aviation inspection bodies and the yacht’s managers