Helipad design on superyacht.

[MCVripack]

Hello everybody,

 

This message is a request for advices from pilot and/or more experienced peolple than I am.

I'm a naval architect working for a Dutch company (www.vripack.com) and for one of our new project (a 53m motor yacht) I have been given the task to design a helicopter platform to accomodate a BELL 427 or a EUROCOPTER EC135.

The owner would like to have this platform licensed as an official one which will not be possible as the space is very limited.

I'm now aiming at designing this platform as helicopter friendly as possible and I think that people who probably have comments on good practise are pilots with experience on landing their machine on such boats.

What dimensions for the platfrom, the railing will be foldable but would slightly stick out form the deck is that a major issue, what boat movement (for ex max frequency and maximum lateral platform displacement before it becomes a real hazard), is the owner choice of helicopter judicious or would you advice something smaller, lighter etc.

If there are any Dutch, Belgian or West German pilot amongst you who I could meet to discuss issues and share your experiences that would be great.

Thanks to everybody in advance.

[Kc135Delta]

Contact me via PM or email and if I can't answer all your questions I certainly know the people who can.

[apiaguy]

Go to www.faa.gov and search for the Heliport/vertiport advisory circular (AC) It will give you all the recommended lengths, weights, etc....