C-2 Attachment 3 AC_150_5390_2D_Heliports.pdf

U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration

Advisory Circular

Subject: Heliport Design Date: 1/5/2023 Initiated By: AAS-100

AC No: 150/5390-2D Change:

1 Purpose.

This advisory circular (AC) provides standards for the planning, design and construction of heliports serving helicopters with single, tandem (front and rear) or dual (side by side) rotors.

2 Cancellation.

This AC cancels AC 150/5390-2C, Heliport Design, dated April 24, 2012.

3 Applicability.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends the standards and guidelines in this AC for uniformity in planning, design, and construction of heliports. This AC does not constitute a regulation, is not mandatory and is not legally binding in its own right. This AC will not be relied upon as a separate basis by the FAA for affirmative enforcement action or other administrative penalty. The standards and guidelines contained in this AC are practices the FAA recommends for establishing an acceptable level of safety, performance, and operation for heliports. Conformity with this AC is voluntary, except for the projects described in subparagraphs 1, 2, and 3 below:

Use of these standards and guidelines is mandatory for projects funded under Federal grant assistance programs, including but not limited to the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Airport Grants program. See Grant Assurance #34. Heliport sponsors should familiarize themselves with the obligations and assurances that apply to each grant program from which they obtained grant funds.

This AC is mandatory, as required by regulation, for projects funded by the Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) program. See PFC Assurance #9.

This AC has no applicability under Title 14 Code of the Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 139 due to an exemption for heliport operators per § 139.1(c)(5).

Other federal agencies, states, or other authorities having jurisdiction over the construction of heliports not funded with AIP, CARES Act, or PFC funds have discretion in establishing the extent to which these standards apply.

https://www.faa.gov/airports/aip/grant_assurances/ https://www.faa.gov/airports/pfc/ https://www.faa.gov/airports/airport_safety/part139_cert/ https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-G/part-139/subpart-A/section-139.1

1/5/2023 AC 150/5390-2D

ii

4 Related Documents.

ACs and Orders referenced in the text of this AC do not include a revision letter, as they refer to the latest version. See Appendix E for a list of associated publications.

5 Principal Changes.

The AC incorporates the following principal changes:

Complete reorganization of this AC:

a. Consolidated Chapters 2, 3 and 4 (GENERAL AVIATION, TRANSPORT, and

HOSPITAL heliport chapters, respectively) into Chapter 2.

b. Consolidated Chapter 7 (Heliport Gradients and Pavement Design) into

Chapter 2.

c. Included a separate Chapter 3 on Heliport Taxiways, Taxi Routes, and

Helicopter Parking.

d. Included a separate Chapter 4 on Heliport Markings and Lighting.

e. Included a separate Chapter 7 on Heliport Site Safety Elements.

f. Added new Appendix B, Pre-designated Emergency Landing Areas (PELAs).

g. Incorporated Engineering Brief #87, Heliport Perimeter Light for Visual

Meteorological Conditions, into this AC to address specific heliport lighting requirements. Heliport lighting design requirements are included in Appendix G.

Revised figures and tables to correspond with the design requirements and dimensions for GENERAL AVIATION, TRANSPORT, and HOSPITAL heliports.

Enhanced the figures to include dimensional, layout, and offset requirements.

Updated the format of the document and made minor editorial changes throughout.

Included a heliport evaluation process flow chart in Appendix F.

6 Using this Document.

Hyperlinks (allowing the reader to access documents located on the internet and to maneuver within this document) are provided throughout this document and are identified with underlined text. When navigating within this document, return to the previously viewed page by pressing the “ALT” and “ ←” keys simultaneously.

Figures in this document are general representations and are not to scale. Colors and shading used in the figures are illustrative only. Guidance on specific heliport markings is provided in Chapter 4.

7 Use of Metrics.

Throughout this AC, U.S. customary units are used followed with “soft” (rounded) conversion to metric units. The U.S. customary units govern.

https://www.faa.gov/airports/engineering/engineering_briefs/media/EB-87.pdf iii

8 Where to Find this AC.

You can view a list of all ACs at https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/advisory_circulars/. You can view the Federal Aviation Regulations at https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/faa_regulations/.

9 Feedback on this AC.

If you have suggestions for improving this AC, you may use the Advisory Circular Feedback form at the end of this AC.

John R. Dermody Director of Airport Safety and Standards

CONTENTS

Paragraph Page iv

CHAPTER 1. Introduction ....................................................................................................... 1-1

1.1 Background. .................................................................................................................. 1-1

1.2 General. ......................................................................................................................... 1-1

1.3 Facilities. ....................................................................................................................... 1-1

1.4 Planning. ....................................................................................................................... 1-2

1.5 Existing Heliports. ........................................................................................................ 1-2

1.6 Location. ....................................................................................................................... 1-2

1.7 AC Organization. .......................................................................................................... 1-3

1.8 Explanation of Terms. ................................................................................................... 1-3

1.9 Selection of Approach/Departure Paths. ..................................................................... 1-10

1.10 Notification Requirements. ......................................................................................... 1-10

1.11 Hazards to Air Navigation. ......................................................................................... 1-15

1.12 Federal Assistance. ..................................................................................................... 1-18

1.13 Environmental Impact Analyses. ................................................................................ 1-18

1.14 Terminal Facilities Design Considerations. ................................................................ 1-19

1.15 Zoning for Compatible Land Use. .............................................................................. 1-19

1.16 Access to Heliports by Individuals with Disabilities. ................................................. 1-20

1.17 State Role. ................................................................................................................... 1-20

1.18 Local Role and Building Code. ................................................................................... 1-20

1.19 Related Referenced Material. ...................................................................................... 1-20

CHAPTER 2. Heliport Design .................................................................................................. 2-1

2.1 General. ......................................................................................................................... 2-1

2.2 Prior Permission Required (PPR) Facilities. ................................................................. 2-1

2.3 Design Approach. ......................................................................................................... 2-1

2.4 Access by Individuals with Disabilities. ....................................................................... 2-1

2.5 Heliport Site Selection. ................................................................................................. 2-4

2.6 TLOF/FATO and Safety Area Relationships. .............................................................. 2-7

2.7 Touchdown and Liftoff Area (TLOF). .......................................................................... 2-9

2.8 Final Approach and Takeoff Area (FATO). ............................................................... 2-17

Paragraph Page v

2.9 Safety Area. ................................................................................................................. 2-21

2.10 Fall Protection and Safety Net Design. ....................................................................... 2-24

2.11 Pavement Design and Soil Stabilization. .................................................................... 2-25

2.12 VFR Approach/Departure Paths. ................................................................................ 2-27

2.13 Heliport Protection Zone (HPZ). ................................................................................ 2-35

2.14 Wind Cone. ................................................................................................................. 2-35

CHAPTER 3. Heliport Taxiways, Taxi Routes, and Helicopter Parking ............................ 3-1

3.1 General. ......................................................................................................................... 3-1

3.2 Taxiways and Taxi Routes. ........................................................................................... 3-1

3.3 Taxiway/Taxi Route Widths. ........................................................................................ 3-1

3.4 Taxiway Surfaces. ......................................................................................................... 3-6

3.5 Taxiway and Taxi Route Gradients. ............................................................................. 3-6

3.6 Helicopter Parking. ....................................................................................................... 3-6

3.7 Parking Position Sizes................................................................................................. 3-13

3.8 Walkways. ................................................................................................................... 3-16

3.9 Fueling. ....................................................................................................................... 3-16

3.10 Tiedowns. .................................................................................................................... 3-16

CHAPTER 4. Heliport Markings and Lighting...................................................................... 4-1

4.1 General. ......................................................................................................................... 4-1

4.2 Heliport Retroreflective Markers and Markings. .......................................................... 4-1

4.3 Standard Heliport Identification Marking. .................................................................... 4-1

4.4 TLOF and FATO Markings. ......................................................................................... 4-6

4.5 Extended Pavement/Structure Markings for GENERAL AVIATION and HOSPITAL Heliports. ................................................................................................ 4-10

4.6 FATO Perimeter Markings. ........................................................................................ 4-10

4.7 Flight Path Alignment Guidance Marking. ................................................................. 4-11

4.8 Taxiway and Taxi Route Markings. ............................................................................ 4-12

4.9 Helicopter Parking Position Markings. ....................................................................... 4-13

4.10 Walkways. ................................................................................................................... 4-14

4.11 Closed Heliport. .......................................................................................................... 4-14

Paragraph Page vi

4.12 Marking Sizes. ............................................................................................................ 4-15

4.13 Heliport Lighting. ....................................................................................................... 4-15

CHAPTER 5. Helicopter Facilities on Airports...................................................................... 5-1

5.1 General. ......................................................................................................................... 5-1

5.2 Touchdown and Liftoff Area (TLOF). .......................................................................... 5-1

5.3 On-Airport Location of Final Approach and Takeoff Area (FATO). ........................... 5-1

5.4 Safety Area. ................................................................................................................... 5-3

5.5 VFR Approach/Departure Paths. .................................................................................. 5-3

5.6 Heliport Protection Zone (HPZ). .................................................................................. 5-3

5.7 Taxiways and Taxi Routes. ........................................................................................... 5-3

5.8 Helicopter Parking. ....................................................................................................... 5-4

5.9 Security. ........................................................................................................................ 5-4

CHAPTER 6. Instrument Operations ..................................................................................... 6-1

6.1 General. ......................................................................................................................... 6-1

6.2 Planning. ....................................................................................................................... 6-3

6.3 Airspace. ....................................................................................................................... 6-3

6.4 Final Approach Reference Area (FARA). .................................................................... 6-3

6.5 Improved Instrument Lighting System. ........................................................................ 6-4

6.6 Obstacle Evaluation Surfaces. ...................................................................................... 6-8

6.7 Visual Glideslope Indicators (VGSI). ........................................................................... 6-8

CHAPTER 7. Heliport Site Safety Elements .......................................................................... 7-1

7.1 General. ......................................................................................................................... 7-1

7.2 Marking and Lighting of Difficult-To-See Objects. ..................................................... 7-1

7.3 Safety Considerations. .................................................................................................. 7-4

Appendix A. Emergency Helicopter Landing Facilities (EHLF) ........................................ A-1

A.1 General. ........................................................................................................................ A-1

A.2 Notification and Coordination. .................................................................................... A-1

A.3 Rooftop Emergency Facilities. ..................................................................................... A-1

Paragraph Page vii

Appendix B. Pre-designated Emergency Landing Areas (PELAs) .....................................B-1

Appendix C. Helicopter Data ................................................................................................. C-1

Appendix D. Dimensions for Marking Size and Weight Limitations ................................. D-1

Appendix E. Associated Publications and Resources ...........................................................E-1

Appendix F. Heliport Evaluation Process Flow Chart ......................................................... F-1

Appendix G. Design Requirements for Heliport Perimeter Lighting ................................ G-1

G.1 Elevated and In-pavement Omnidirectional Helipad Perimeter Light. ....................... G-1

G.2 Photometric Requirements. .......................................................................................... G-2

G.3 Additional Heliport Perimeter Light Requirements. .................................................... G-2

G.4 L-860H and L-852H Light Fixture Testing. ................................................................ G-3

G.5 Installation Criteria. ..................................................................................................... G-3 viii

FIGURES

Figure 1-1. FAA Form 7480-1, Notice for Construction, Alteration and Deactivation of Airports .................................................................................................................................. 1-12

Figure 1-2. Example of a Heliport Layout Plan ......................................................................... 1-13

Figure 1-3. Example of a Heliport Location Map ...................................................................... 1-14

Figure 1-4. Offsite Development Requiring Notice to the FAA ............................................... 1-17

Figure 2-1. GENERAL AVIATION Heliport – Basic Features .................................................. 2-2

Figure 2-2. TRANSPORT Heliport – Basic Features .................................................................. 2-3

Figure 2-3. HOSPITAL Heliport (Ground Level) – Basic Features ............................................ 2-4

Figure 2-4. Heliport EMI Hazard Marking .................................................................................. 2-6

Figure 2-5. Heliport EMI Hazard Sign ........................................................................................ 2-7

Figure 2-6. TLOF/FATO/Safety Area Relationships and Minimum Dimensions ...................... 2-8

Figure 2-7. Heliport Gradients and Rapid Runoff Shoulder - Load-bearing FATOs ................ 2-12

Figure 2-8. Optional Elongated TLOF and FATO with Two Takeoff Positions....................... 2-13

Figure 2-9. Elevated Heliport: GENERAL AVIATION and HOSPITAL ................................ 2-15

Figure 2-10. Elevated Heliport: TRANSPORT ......................................................................... 2-16

Figure 2-11. Additional FATO Length for Heliports at Higher Elevations .............................. 2-19

Figure 2-12. Non-load-bearing FATO and Safety Area over Water: GENERAL AVIATION and HOSPITAL Heliports .............................................................................................. 2-23

Figure 2-13. Non-load-bearing Safety Area over Water: TRANSPORT .................................. 2-24

Figure 2-14. Helicopter Landing Gear Loading: Gradients and Pavement ............................... 2-26

Figure 2-15. VFR Heliport Approach/Departure and Transitional Surfaces ............................. 2-28

Figure 2-16. VFR Curved Approach/Departure and Transitional Surfaces – GENERAL AVIATION and TRANSPORT Heliports ............................................................... 2-29

Figure 2-17. VFR HOSPTIAL and PPR Heliport Optional Lateral Extensions of the 8:1 Approach/Departure Surface ................................................................................... 2-31

Figure 2-18. VFR HOSPITAL and PPR Heliport Optional Lateral Extension of the Curved 8:1 Approach/Departure Surface ................................................................................... 2-33

Figure 2-19. Flight Path Alignment Marking and Lights .......................................................... 2-34

Figure 2-20. Heliport Protection Zone (HPZ) ............................................................................ 2-36

Figure 3-1. Taxiway/Taxi Route Relationship – Paved Taxiway ................................................ 3-2 ix

Figure 3-2. Taxiway/Taxi Route Relationship – Unpaved Taxiway with Elevated Retroreflective Edge Markers ............................................................................................................. 3-3

Figure 3-3. Taxiway/Taxi Route Relationship – Unpaved Taxiway with In-Pavement Retroreflective Edge Markers .................................................................................... 3-4

Figure 3-4. Hover Taxi Area ........................................................................................................ 3-5

Figure 3-5. Typical Parking Area Design – “Taxi-through” Parking Positions. ......................... 3-7

Figure 3-6. Typical Parking Area Design – “Turn-around” Parking Positions ........................... 3-8

Figure 3-7. Typical Parking Area Design – “Back-out” Parking Positions ................................. 3-9

Figure 3-8. “Turn-around” Parking Position Marking ............................................................... 3-11

Figure 3-9. “Taxi-through” and “Back-out” Parking Position Marking .................................... 3-12

Figure 3-10. Parking Position Identification, Size, and Weight Limitations – Paved Areas, Turn- Around Parking ........................................................................................................ 3-14

Figure 3-11. Parking Position Identification, Size, and Weight Limitations – Paved Areas, “Taxi-through” and “Back-out” Parking ............................................................................ 3-15

Figure 4-1. Standard TLOF Markings ......................................................................................... 4-3

Figure 4-2. Standard Heliport Identification Symbol, TLOF Size and Weight Limitations ....... 4-4

Figure 4-3. HOSPITAL Heliport – Standard Identification Marking.......................................... 4-5

Figure 4-4. HOSPITAL Heliport – Alternative Identification Marking ...................................... 4-6

Figure 4-5. Paved TLOF/Paved FATO – Paved TLOF/Unpaved FATO – Marking:

TRANSPORT Heliports and Other Heliports with a Paved TLOF ........................... 4-7

Figure 4-6. Unpaved TLOF/Unpaved FATO – Marking: GENERAL AVIATION and HOSPITAL Heliports ................................................................................................ 4-8

Figure 4-7. Extended Pavement/Structure Marking: GENERAL AVIATION and HOSPITAL Heliports ................................................................................................................... 4-11

Figure 4-8. Marking a Closed Heliport ...................................................................................... 4-15

Figure 4-9. Elevated TLOF – Perimeter Lighting ..................................................................... 4-17

Figure 4-10. TLOF/FATO Perimeter Lighting .......................................................................... 4-18

Figure 4-11. TLOF In-pavement and FATO Elevated Perimeter Lighting ............................... 4-19

Figure 4-12. FATO Elevation .................................................................................................... 4-21

Figure 4-13. Landing Direction Lights. ..................................................................................... 4-23

Figure 5-1. Example of Heliport Facilities Located on an Airport .............................................. 5-2

Figure 6-1. FARA/FATO Relationship: Precision Instrument Procedure ................................... 6-4

Figure 6-2. Heliport Instrument Lighting System (HILS): Non-precision .................................. 6-6

Figure 6-3. Heliport Approach Lighting System ......................................................................... 6-7

Figure 6-4. Visual Glideslope Indicator (VGSI) Siting and Clearance Criteria .......................... 6-9 x

Figure 7-1. Airspace Where Heliport Marking and Lighting are Recommended: Straight Approach .................................................................................................................... 7-2

Figure 7-2. Airspace Where Heliport Marking and Lighting are Recommended: Curved Approach .................................................................................................................... 7-3

Figure 7-3. Heliport Caution Sign ............................................................................................... 7-5

Figure A-1. Rooftop Emergency Landing Facility ..................................................................... A-2

Figure C-1. Helicopter Dimensions ............................................................................................ C-2

Figure D-1. Form and Proportions of 36-inch (0.9 m) Numbers for Marking Size and Weight Limitations ................................................................................................................ D-2

Figure D-2. Form and Proportions of 18-inch (0.5 m) Numbers for Marking Size and Weight Limitation .................................................................................................................. D-3

Figure G-1. Perimeter Light Intensity Distribution .................................................................... G-2

TABLES

Table 2-1. TLOF/FATO Minimum Dimensions 1 ...................................................................... 2-8

Table 2-2. Minimum Dimensions for Elongated FATO with Two Takeoff Positions .............. 2-13

Table 2-3. TLOF Elevation and Configuration of Rooftop and other Elevated Heliports ........ 2-14

Table 2-4. Minimum VFR Safety Area Width as a Function of Heliport Markings GENERAL AVIATION, HOSPITAL, and PPR Heliports ......................................................... 2-21

Table 2-5. Differences in Safety Net Design for Rooftop and Elevated Heliports .................... 2-25

Table 3-1. Taxiway/Taxi Route Dimensions – GENERAL AVIATION, TRANSPORT, and HOSPITAL Heliports ................................................................................................ 3-5

Table 4-1. FATO Perimeter Light Design ................................................................................. 4-20

Table 5-1. Recommended Distance between FATO Center to Runway Centerline for VFR Operations .................................................................................................................. 5-3

Table 6-1. Standards for Instrument Approach Procedures ......................................................... 6-2

Table C-1. Helicopter Data ......................................................................................................... C-3

Table G-1. Helicopter Approach Angles Assuming VMC ......................................................... G-1

Table G-2. Perimeter Lighting Intensity Recommendations ...................................................... G-2

1-1

CHAPTER 1. Introduction

1.1 Background.

Section 103 of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 states in part, “In the exercise and performance of his power and duties under this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall consider the following, among other things, as being in the public interest: (a) The regulation of air commerce in such manner as to best promote its development and safety and fulfill the requirements of defense; (b) The promotion, encouragement, and development of civil aeronautics . . .” This public charge, in effect, requires the development and maintenance of a national system of safe heliports. Using the standards and recommendations contained in this publication in the design of heliports supports this public charge.

These standards and recommendations do not limit or regulate the operations of helicopters, aircraft or heliports. When it is not feasible to meet the standards and recommendations in this advisory circular (AC), consult with the appropriate offices of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Office of Airports and Flight Standards Service to identify possible adjustments to include operational procedures that accommodate safe heliport operations to the maximum extent.

The guidance provided in this AC is limited to heliports and helicopter operations. This AC does not specifically consider the characteristics of all vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft or unmanned aircraft. New aircraft entrants that have an interest in operating at heliports should work with the FAA Office of Airports and Flight Standards to demonstrate that their aircraft’s operational and safety parameters comply with this AC, prior to operations.

The FAA is developing guidance for vertiports that would be intended for VTOL and/or unmanned aircraft. Until that guidance is published, entities developing operating sites for new aircraft entrants are encouraged to work with the FAA Office of Airports and Flight Standards on applicable design, operational, and safety criteria tailored to the performance of aircraft which intend to operate at those facilities.

1.2 General.

This chapter provides:

• an explanation of terms used in this AC,

• notification responsibilities of heliport proponents to the FAA,

• general heliport siting guidance, and

• sources of technical information relating to the planning and design of a civil heliport.

1.3 Facilities.

Most heliports are not large and elaborate. A minimal facility may be adequate as a private-use prior permission required (PPR) heliport (see Appendix A) and may serve as the initial phase in the development of a public-use heliport capable of serving the

1-2 general aviation segment of the helicopter community. See Chapter 2 for requirements and design guidance for each specific heliport type.

The basic elements of a heliport include:

• clear approach/departure paths,

• clear area for ground maneuvers,

• final approach and takeoff area (FATO),

• touchdown and liftoff area (TLOF),

• safety area, and

• a wind cone.

1.4 Planning.

This AC is a design document intended to assist engineers, architects, and city planners to design, locate, and build a suitable heliport. While the heliport itself may be simple, the planning and organization necessary to properly develop a heliport can present challenges. Ensure proper consideration of the physical, technical, safety, and public interest matters described in this document during the planning and establishment of a heliport.

1.5 Existing Heliports.

Whenever a change or alteration to an existing heliport requires the submission of FAA Form 7460-1, Notice of Proposed Construction or Alteration, or FAA Form 7480-1, Notice of Landing Area Proposal, consider taking necessary actions, as practical, to bring the heliport up to current design standards. Refer to paragraph 1.11.3 for additional information.

1.6 Location.

The optimum location for a heliport is near the desired origination and/or destination of the potential heliport users. Industrial, commercial, and medical operations in urban locations are demand generators for helicopter services, even though they often compete for the limited ground space available.

1.6.1 Factors to Consider.

Heliport sites adjacent to a river, lake, railroad, freeway, or highway offer potential for multi-functional land usage.

Locations that have the advantage of unobstructed airspace and which have properly enacted zoning can provide further protection from disruptive encroachment.

Requirements for scheduled “airline-type” passenger services may necessitate the development of an instrument procedure to permit “all-weather” service.

https://www.faa.gov/forms/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/186273 https://www.faa.gov/forms/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/186273 https://www.faa.gov/forms/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/185334

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1.7 AC Organization.

This AC covers GENERAL AVIATION heliports (including PPR heliports), TRANSPORT heliports, HOSPITAL heliports, and emergency landing facilities.

Heliport proponent familiarity with the terminology used in this specialized field is imperative. See paragraph 1.8 for specific heliport terminology and definitions.

1.7.1 Helicopter Facilities on Airports.

Consider developing separate heliport facilities for helicopter use when there are a significant number of helicopter operations on an airport. Chapter 5 addresses helicopter facilities on airports.

1.7.2 Instrument Operations.

Instrument approach procedures at heliports are practical since the introduction of the global positioning system (GPS). Good planning suggests that heliport proponents plan for the eventual development of instrument approaches to their heliports. Consider the recommendations in Chapter 6 in contemplating future instrument operations at a heliport during heliport site selection and design, even if the heliport will not initially have instrument operations.

1.7.3 Heliport Gradients and Pavement Design.

Chapter 2 provides guidance on heliport gradients and pavement design issues.

1.7.4 Additional Information and Resources.

Additional information and resources are found in the Appendices as follows:

• Appendix A provides guidance on emergency helicopter landing facilities.

• Appendix B provides guidance for pre-designated emergency landing areas.

• Appendix C provides helicopter dimensional data.

• Appendix D provides guidance on the form, size, and proportions of certain heliport markings.

• Appendix E provides a list of associated publications and resources referenced in this AC.

• Appendix F provides a heliport evaluation process flow chart.

• Appendix G provides design guidance on heliport lighting.

1.8 Explanation of Terms.

The Pilot/Controller Glossary of the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) defines terms used in the Air Traffic System. Copies of the AIM are available from the FAA website https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/. Other terms used in this publication follow.

1.8.1 Air Taxi.

Refers to helicopter taxi operations, typically below 100 feet (30.5 m) above ground level (AGL), which allows helicopter movement from one point to another.

https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/

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1.8.2 Approach/Departure Path.

The flight track helicopters follow when landing at or departing from a heliport. The approach/departure paths may be straight or curved.

1.8.3 Controlling Dimension (D).

The greater of helicopter overall length (OL) and overall width (OW).

1.8.4 Design Helicopter.

A single or composite helicopter that reflects the maximum weight, maximum contact load/minimum contact area, controlling dimension (D), overall width (OW), rotor diameter (RD), tail rotor arc radius, undercarriage dimensions, and pilot’s eye height of all helicopters expected to operate at the heliport.

1.8.5 Design Loads.

Design and construct the touchdown and lift area (TLOF), and any load-bearing surfaces, to support the loads imposed by the design helicopter and any ground support vehicles and equipment.

1.8.5.1 Static Load.

For design purposes, the design static load is equal to the helicopter’s maximum takeoff weight applied through the total contact area of the wheels or skids. See paragraph 2.7.3.1.

1.8.5.2 Dynamic Load.

For design purposes, assume the dynamic load at 150 percent of the maximum takeoff weight of the design helicopter applied through the main undercarriage on a wheel-equipped helicopter or aft contact areas of skid-equipped helicopter. See paragraph 2.7.3.2.

1.8.6 Elevated Heliport.

A heliport located on a rooftop or other elevated structure where the TLOF is at least 30 inches (0.8 m) above the surrounding surface (a ground-level heliport with the TLOF on a mound is not an elevated heliport).

1.8.7 Emergency Helicopter Landing Facility (EHLF).

A clear area at ground level or on the roof of a building capable of accommodating helicopters engaged in fire fighting and/or emergency evacuation operations. An EHLF meets the definition of a heliport in this AC and under 14 CFR Part 157, Notice of Construction, Alteration, Activation, and Deactivation of Airports.

1.8.8 Final Approach and Takeoff Area (FATO).

A defined area over which the pilot completes the final phase of the approach to a hover or a landing and from which the pilot initiates takeoff. The FATO and TLOF are normally co-located but may be located separately. The FATO is associated with all instrument approach/departure procedures.

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-I/part-157?toc=1

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1.8.9 Final Approach Reference Area (FARA).

An obstacle-free area with its center aligned on the final approach course. It is located at the end of a precision instrument FATO.

1.8.10 Frangibly Mounted.

While there is no accepted standard for frangibility regarding helicopter operations, remove all objects from a FATO and safety area except those of the lowest mass practicable and frangibly mounted objects no higher than 2 inches (51 mm) above the adjacent TLOF elevation, to the extent practicable.

1.8.11 GENERAL AVIATION (GA) Heliport.

A heliport intended to accommodate individuals, corporations, aerial tourism, and public safety agencies. For the purposes of this AC, “general aviation” refers to all helicopter operations other than scheduled service (with the exception of unscheduled service with helicopters with maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) greater than 12,500 pounds (lbs)). HOSPITAL heliports and emergency landing facilities fall under general aviation but are treated separately in the AC due to their specific requirements.

GENERAL AVIATION heliports may be publicly or privately owned.

1.8.12 Ground Taxi.

The surface movement of a wheeled helicopter under its own power with wheels touching the ground.

1.8.13 Hazard to Air Navigation.

An existing or proposed object that the FAA, as a result of an aeronautical study, determines will have a substantial adverse effect upon the safe and efficient use of navigable airspace by helicopters and other aircraft, operation of air navigation facilities, or existing or potential airport capacity.

1.8.14 Helipad.

A small, designated area, usually with a prepared surface, on a heliport, airport, landing/takeoff area, apron/ramp, or movement area used for takeoff, landing, or parking of helicopters. A helipad on an airport does not constitute a heliport.

1.8.15 Heliport.

An area of land, water, or structure used or intended to be used for helicopter landings and takeoffs and includes associated buildings and facilities.

1.8.16 Heliport Elevation.

The highest elevation of all helicopter landing areas (TLOFs) within the heliport, expressed as the distance above mean sea level (MSL).

1.8.17 Heliport Imaginary Surfaces.

The imaginary planes defined in 14 CFR Part 77, Safe, Efficient Use, and Preservation of the Navigable Airspace, centered about the FATO and the approach/departure paths, which are used to identify the objects where notice to and evaluation by the FAA is https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-E/part-77?toc=1

1-6 required. Recommendations for mitigating possible obstructions to air navigation may include realignment of approach/departure paths or removal, lowering, marking, and lighting of objects.

1.8.18 Heliport Layout Plan.

The plan of a heliport showing the layout of existing and proposed heliport facilities including the approach/departure paths and dimensions of TLOF, FATO, and Safety Area.

1.8.19 Heliport Protection Zone (HPZ).

An area off the end of the FATO and under the approach/departure path intended to enhance the protection of people and property on the ground.

1.8.20 Heliport Reference Point (HRP).

The geographic position of the heliport expressed as the latitude and longitude at:

The center of the FATO, or the centroid of multiple FATOs, for heliports having visual and non-precision instrument approach procedures; or

The center of the final approach reference area (FARA) when the heliport has a precision instrument procedure.

1.8.21 Helistop.

A heliport that provides no fueling, defueling, maintenance, repairs, or storage of helicopters. The geometry and approach/departure surfaces of a helistop are identical to those of a heliport. This AC does not use this term, as the design standards and recommendations in this AC apply to all heliports.

1.8.22 HOSPITAL Heliport.

A HOSPITAL heliport services helicopters used by helicopter air ambulance providers.

A HOSPITAL heliport may be designed to accommodate large military helicopters in some emergencies. Air ambulance helicopters are often used to transport injured persons from the scene of an accident to a hospital and to transfer patients from one hospital to another. A designated helicopter landing area located at a hospital or medical facility is a heliport and not a medical emergency site.

1.8.23 Hover Taxi.

The movement of a helicopter above the surface, typically used to move short distances from one point to another. Generally, this takes place at a wheel/skid height of 1 to 5 feet (0.3 to 1.5 m) and at a slow ground speed of less than 20 knots (37 kilometers(km)/h). For facility design purposes, assume a skid-equipped helicopter to hover-taxi.

1.8.24 In-Pavement Lights.

Where the term “in-pavement lights” is specified in this AC, interpret it as including in-ground lights.

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1.8.25 Landing Position.

An area, normally located in the center of an elongated TLOF, on which the helicopter lands.

1.8.26 Large Helicopter.

A helicopter with a maximum takeoff weight of more than 12,500 lbs (5,670 kilograms (kg)).

1.8.27 Load-Bearing Area (LBA).

The portion of the TLOF and any additional support structure capable of supporting the dynamic load of the design helicopter.

1.8.28 Medical Emergency Site.

An unprepared site at or near the scene of an accident or similar medical emergency on which a helicopter may land to pick up a patient to provide emergency medical transport. A medical emergency site is not a heliport as defined in this AC.

1.8.29 Medium Helicopter.

A helicopter with a maximum takeoff weight of more than 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) and up to 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg).

1.8.30 Obstruction to Air Navigation.

Any fixed or mobile object, including a parked helicopter, of greater height than any of the heights or surfaces presented in subpart C of Part 77.

1.8.31 Overall Helicopter Length (OL).

The overall length of the helicopter, which is the dimension from the tip of the main or forward rotor to the tip of the tail rotor, fin, or other rear-most point of the helicopter.

This value is with the rotors at their maximum extension. See Appendix C. If only the value of the RD is known, estimate the value for OL using the relationship OL = 1.2 RD (or conversely, RD = 0.83 OL).

1.8.32 Overall Width (OW).

The OW is defined as the maximum outer dimension of the aircraft rotors or wings. See Appendix C.

1.8.33 Parking Pad.

The center portion of a helicopter parking position, whether paved or grass.

1.8.34 Prior Permission Required (PPR) Heliport.

A heliport developed for exclusive use of the owner and persons authorized by the owner and about which the owner and operator ensure all authorized pilots are thoroughly knowledgeable. These features include but are not limited to:

• approach/departure path characteristics

• preferred heading

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• lighting

• obstacles in the area

• size and weight capacity of the facility

• heliport facility limitations

1.8.35 Public-use Heliport.

A heliport available for use by the public without a requirement for prior approval of the owner or operator.

1.8.36 Rotor Diameter (RD).

The length of the main rotor, from tip to tip.

1.8.37 Rotor Downwash.

The downward movement of air caused by the action of the rotating main rotor blades.

When this air strikes the ground or some other surface, it causes a turbulent outflow of air from beneath the helicopter.

1.8.38 Safety Area.

A defined area on a heliport surrounding the FATO intended to reduce the risk of damage to helicopters accidentally diverging from the FATO.

1.8.39 Shielded Obstruction.

A proposed or existing obstruction that does not need to be marked or lighted due to its proximity to another obstruction whose highest point is at the same or higher elevation.

1.8.40 Shoulder Line.

A marking line perpendicular to a helicopter parking position centerline that is intended to provide the pilot with a visual cue to assist in parking.

1.8.41 Small Helicopter.

A helicopter with a maximum takeoff weight of 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) or less.

1.8.42 Tail Rotor Arc Radius.

The distance from the hub of the main rotor to the outermost tip of the tail rotor or the rear-most point of the helicopter tail, whichever is farther.

1.8.43 Takeoff Position.

An area, normally located on the centerline and at the ends of an elongated TLOF, from which the helicopter takes off. Typically, there are two such positions on an elongated TLOF, one at each end.

1.8.44 Taxi Route.

An obstruction-free corridor established for the movement of helicopters from one part of a heliport/airport to another. A taxi route includes the taxiway plus the appropriate clearances on both sides.

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1.8.45 Taxiway.

A marked route between the TLOF and other areas on the heliport. This AC defines two types of helicopter taxiways:

1.8.45.1 Ground Taxiway.

A taxiway intended to permit the surface movement of a wheeled helicopter under its own power with wheels on the ground. The minimum dimensions defined for a ground taxiway may not be adequate for hover taxi.

1.8.45.2 Hover Taxiway.

A taxiway intended to permit the hover taxiing of a helicopter.

1.8.46 Touchdown and Liftoff Area (TLOF).

A load-bearing (generally paved) area normally centered in the FATO, on which the helicopter performs a touchdown or liftoff.

1.8.47 Transitional Surface.

An imaginary surface which, in conjunction with the approach/departure surface, provides airspace clear of hazards to allow safe approaches to, and departures from, the

FATO.

1.8.48 TRANSPORT Heliport.

A heliport designed to accommodate air carriers providing scheduled service on large helicopters (helicopters with a maximum takeoff weight greater than 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg)). Extensive airside and landside infrastructure is provided to accommodate passengers and to enable operations in instrument meteorological conditions.

1.8.49 Touchdown/Positioning Circle (TDPC) Marking.

A circular marking located in the center of a TLOF or a parking position. When the pilot’s seat is over the TDPC, the whole of the helicopter undercarriage will be within the TLOF or parking position, and all parts of the helicopter rotor system, will be clear of any obstacle by a safe margin.

1.8.50 Undercarriage Width (UCW).

The distance between the outside edges of the outer tires or skids. See Figure B-1.

1.8.51 Unshielded Obstruction.

A proposed or existing obstruction that may need to be marked or lighted since it is not near another marked and lighted obstruction whose highest point is at the same or higher elevation.

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1.9 Selection of Approach/Departure Paths.

Design heliports to the extent practicable for two approach/departure paths. Consider wind, obstructions, and environmental impacts, for example, in selecting the approach/departure paths.

1.9.1 Wind.

Well-designed approach/departure paths permit pilots to avoid downwind conditions and minimize crosswind operations. Align the preferred flight approach paths and departure paths, to the extent feasible, with the predominant wind direction. Base other approach paths and departure paths on the assessment of the prevailing winds or, when this information is not available, separate such flight paths and the preferred flight path by at least 135 degrees. If it is not feasible to provide adequate coverage of wind conditions through multiple approach/departure paths, operational limitations may be necessary under certain wind conditions. See paragraph 2.12.1.

1.9.2 Obstructions.

In determining approach/departure paths, consider any existing or proposed (future) obstructions near the heliport and those likely to be a hazard to air navigation. See paragraph 1.11.

1.9.3 Environmental Impacts.

In environmentally sensitive areas, select the final approach/departure path(s) to minimize any environmental impact, providing it does not decrease flight safety. See paragraph 1.13.

1.10 Notification Requirements.

Part 157 sets requirements for persons proposing to construct, activate, deactivate, or alter a heliport to give advance notice of their intent to the FAA. This includes but is not limited to the following changes:

• changing the size or number of FATOs;

• adding, deleting, or changing an approach or departure route;

• change to a heliport status (for example, changing the heliport status) from private to public-use or vice versa.

File FAA Form 7480-1 (see Figure 1-1) with the appropriate FAA Airports Regional or District Office at least 90 days before construction, alteration, deactivation, or change in use when notification is required. See the FAA Airports website at https://www.faa.gov/airports/ for contact information. Alterations to an existing heliport requiring notification could include changes to heliport dimensions, approach and departure surfaces, heliport location, and heliport relocation to a different site.

Appendix F provides the general heliport evaluation process flow chart to be followed by heliport proponents.

1.10.1 Draw the heliport layout plan to scale showing key dimensions, such as:

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-I/part-157?toc=1 https://www.faa.gov/airports/

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• heliport elevation

• TLOF size

• FATO size

• safety area size

• distance from safety area perimeter to property edges

• approach/departure paths showing locations of:

o buildings o trees o fences o power lines o obstructions (including elevations) o schools o churches o hospitals o residential communities o waste disposal sites o other significant features, as specified on FAA Form 7480-1 and shown in

Figure 1-2.

1.10.2…