C-2 Attachment 4 NWCG Standards.pdf

A publication of the

National Wildfire

Coordinating Group

NWCG Standards for

Helicopter Operations

PMS 510 May 2019

The National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) provides national leadership to enable interoperable wildland fire operations among federal, state, tribal, territorial, and local partners. NWCG operations standards are interagency by design; they are developed with the intent of universal adoption by the member agencies. However, the decision to adopt and utilize them is made independently by the individual member agencies and communicated through their respective directives systems.

NWCG Standards for

Helicopter Operations May 2019

PMS 510

The NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations (NSHO) establishes the standards by which helicopter operations are to be conducted under the exclusive direction and operational control of federal, state and local agencies in the accomplishment of interagency fire suppression and natural resource aviation management. These standards:

Promote safe, cost-efficient and effective aviation services in support of agency and interagency goals and objectives.

Define national, interagency helicopter management and operational procedures for helicopter users from participating agencies.

Facilitate the ability of personnel from different agencies to work cooperatively on incidents or projects.

Provide a framework within which areas, regions, states, and local units can provide supplemental, site-specific guidance.

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations i

Table of Contents

Chapter 01 – Introduction

Scope Authority Organization

Chapter 02 – Personnel

Introduction Training, Qualification and Currency Requirements Helicopter Staffing Requirements Helicopter Minimum Staffing Exceptions NWCG Incident Position Descriptions Non-NWCG Helicopter Management Personnel Roles and Responsibilities

Chapter 03 – Operational Planning

Introduction Developing Objectives and Contingency Planning Risk Management Specific Special Use Missions Flight Planning and Scheduling Process Aircraft Cost-Comparison Analysis Aviation Project and Mission Planning Project Aviation Safety Plans

Chapter 04 – Communications, Flight Following, and Resource Tracking

Introduction Flight Following Resource Tracking Communication Systems Aircraft Communication Systems Helibase Communications Incident Airspace Communications

Chapter 05 – Vendor Personnel and Equipment Approval and Carding

Introduction Approval and Documentation Process Interagency and Procurement Document Standards Responsibility for Checking Carding or Approval Prior to Use Interagency Helicopter Pilot Qualification Card Helicopter Data Card Mechanic Qualification Card Service Truck Data Card Aircraft Fuel Facility Inspection and Carding

Chapter 06 – Helicopter Capabilities and Limitations

Introduction Helicopter Performance and Selection Weight and Balance

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations ii

High Density Altitude Day/Night Flight Limitations Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Flight Limitations Wind Restrictions Helicopter Operating in Snow-Covered Areas Helicopter Flight Over Congested and Densely Populated Areas Supplemental Oxygen Requirements Lockdown of Controls Military Helicopter Limitations

Chapter 07 – Helicopter Load Calculations and Manifests

Introduction Responsibility for Completion of Load Calculations Determining Load Capability Using Appropriate HIGE/HOGE Aircraft Performance Charts Manifests

Chapter 08 – Helicopter Landing Areas

Introduction Planning Permanent Helibase Temporary Helibases and Helispots Site Ownership and Approval Selection of and Specifications for Temporary Helibases, Helispots, and Unimproved Landing Sites ... 72 Approach/Departure Path Required Equipment and Facilities Markings for Aerial Identification Dust Abatement Procedures for Landings

Chapter 09 – Equipment Requirements and Maintenance

Introduction Interagency Fire Helicopter Equipment Requirements Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements for Personnel Survival Equipment Crash Rescue Equipment for Helicopter Landing Sites Standard Equipment for External Loads Inspection and Maintenance of Swivels Specialized External Load Equipment Ground-Based Tank Systems for Helicopter Dipping and Filling

Chapter 10 – Personnel Transport

Introduction Qualified Personnel Personnel Transport Using Military Helicopters Special Law Enforcement Operations Special Search and Rescue Operations Load Calculations and Manifests Loading Procedures

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations iii

Chapter 11 – Cargo Transport

Introduction Qualified Personnel Load Calculations and Manifests Aircrew Member on Board during External Load Missions Hazardous Materials Transport and Handling Cargo Transport with Military Aircraft Cargo Preparation Equipment Inspection Cargo Inspection Loading and Rigging Procedures Hookup Methods General Requirements for External Load Missions Procedures for Hover Hookups Cargo Letdown Cargo Freefall

Chapter 12 – Fire Protection and Crash Rescue Procedures

Introduction On-Site Accident Preparedness Planning Types of Emergencies Classes of Fire Extinguishing Capacity Extinguishing Agents Extinguishers Types Most Commonly Used Requirements Sequence of Actions Fatalities Extrication and Evacuation Preservation of the Accident Scene

Chapter 13 – Fueling Operations

Introduction Responsibilities Fuel and Oil Pollution Prevention Types of Fuel Identifying Types of Fuel Contamination Testing Fueling Hazard Safety Precautions Rapid Refueling Vendor Fueling Operations Government Fueling Operations General Guidance and Requirements Inspections and Quality Control Fuel Spills

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations iv

Chapter 14 – Helicopter Maintenance

Introduction Inspection Pilot Functioning as a Mechanic Mechanic Approval Unscheduled Maintenance

Chapter 15 – Helibase and Helispot Management and Operations

Introduction Coordination with Project Aviation Manager or ASGS and AOBD Helibase Briefing and Debriefing Helibase Personnel and Organization Helibase Setup and Layout Helispot Considerations Dipsite Considerations Additional Considerations

Chapter 16 – Law Enforcement

Introduction Personnel Duties and Responsibilities, Qualifications, Certification and Training Operational Planning Flight Following, Resource Tracking and Communications Personnel and Equipment Approval and Carding Helicopter Capabilities and Limitations Helicopter Load Calculations and Manifests Helicopter Landing Areas Equipment Requirements and Maintenance Personnel Transport Cargo Transport Fire Protection and Crash Rescue Fueling Operations Helicopter Maintenance Helibase and Helispot Management and Operations Administration

Chapter 17 – Search and Rescue Operations

Introduction Personnel Duties and Responsibilities, Qualifications, Certification and Training Operational Planning Flight Following and Communications Personnel and Equipment Approval and Carding Helicopter Capabilities and Limitations Helicopter Load Calculations and Manifests Helicopter Landing Areas Equipment Requirements and Maintenance Personnel Transport Cargo Transport Fire Protection and Crash Rescue Fueling Operations Helicopter Maintenance Helibase and Helispot Management and Operations

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations v

Appendix A – Helicopter Management Forms and Checklists

Introduction Applicability Electronic HCM Forms Aircraft Contract Daily Diary, OAS-137 or HCM-1 CWN Pre-Use Checklist, HCM-2 Aircraft Fuel Facility Inspection Log, HCM-3 Helicopter Turbine Engine Power Assurance Check, HCM-4 Turbine Engine Performance Trend Analysis, HCM-5 Helicopter Information Sheet, HCM-6 Helicopter Crew Information Sheet, HCM-7 Interagency Helicopter Load Calculation, OAS-67/FS 5700-17 Interagency Helicopter Passenger/Cargo Manifest, HCM-9 Helicopter Load Capability Summary Multiple Helispots and Fuel Loads, HCM-10 Aircraft Dispatch, NIFC HCM-1 Pilot Flight Time/Duty Day Cumulative Log, HCM-12 Helicopter Daily Use and Cost Summary, HCM-15 Contractor Performance Assessment Report System (CPARS)

Appendix B – Helibase Management Forms and Checklists

Introduction Daily Helicopter Operations Briefing/Debriefing Checklist (HBM-00) Helibase Organization Chart (HBM-1) Helibase Complexity Analysis (HBM-1A) Aviation Locations Summary (HBM-2) Helibase Aircraft Information Summary (HBM-3) Allowable Payload Chart (HBM-4) Helibase Flight Following Log (HBM-5) Flight Hour Tracking (Multiple Helicopters) (HBM-5A) Helibase Daily Use and Cost Summary (HBM-7) Helibase Communications Plan (HBM-8) Helicopter Demobilization Information Sheet (HBM-9) None. Helicopter Flight Schedule (HBM-9A) Facilities, Hazard, and Flight Route Map (HBM-10) Helibase Cumulative Cost Summary (HBM-11) Helitack Crew Performance Rating (HBM-12) and Helibase Personnel Performance Rating (HBM-13) Two for One HMGB and/or Standard to Limited Request (HBM-14) Emergency Rescue Information, HBM-15

Appendix C – Emergency Response

Introduction Emergency Response Preparedness Plan Medical Incident Report, part of ICS-206WF

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations vi

Appendix D – Contract Administration, Agency Flight Payment Documents

Introduction Contract File Types of Contracts and Ordering Agreements Authority of Government Personnel Disputes with Vendors Generic Duties and Responsibilities of Contracting Personnel Flight Payment Documents Services Ordered and Received by the U.S. Forest Service

Appendix E – Helitack Crew and Helibase Preparedness Reviews

Purpose Applicability Responsibility and Instructions for Completion Routing and Filing

Appendix F – NSHO Helibase Job Aids Package

Emergency Medevac/Medical Transport Request (HJA-1) Helibase Manager’s Reminders List (HJA-2) Remote Fuel Site Reminders List (HJA-3) Crash Rescue/Medevac/Evacuation Plan (HJA-4) Risk Assessment / Risk Management Worksheets (HJA-5, HJA-6, HJA-7) Operational Risk Assessment – Green-Amber-Red (GAR) Form

Appendix G – Safety Risk Management Process

Introduction Safety Risk Management Principles Terms The Five-Step Process Risk Assessment Tools and Methods

SAFECOM

After Action Review (AAR)

Appendix H – Incident, Hazard and Accident Reporting

Introduction Situations that Warrant a Written Report Maintenance Deficiency Aircraft Incident Reports and Forms

Appendix I – Crash Rescue Diagrams

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 1 of 311

Chapter 01 – Introduction 1

Scope 2

If an agency chooses to incorporate the NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations (NSHO) as policy 3 within the agency’s directives system, it is essential that the user understands the use of language in the 4

NSHO regarding mandatory or optional compliance. The use of the verb “must” conveys mandatory 5 compliance; use of “should” conveys required compliance except for documented justifiable reasons; 6 and use of “may” and “can” conveys optional compliance. 7

While it is recognized that field offices from most participating agencies have the authority to issue 8 more restrictive guidance and directives than that contained in the NSHO, they are encouraged not to do 9 so in the interests of the guide’s objective to promote interagency standardization of helicopter 10 operations. Exceptions to the NSHO may only be authorized through agency-specific procedures. 11

For aviation operations using Active Duty/Reserve military helicopters, and National Guard units 12 officially “federalized” by the Department of Defense (DoD). See Chapter 70 of the National 13

Interagency Fire Center, Military Use Handbook for specific policy and procedural information located 14 at https://www.predictiveservices.nifc.gov/intelligence/military/military_use.pdf. 15

The use of National Guard units for federal firefighting purposes within their state must be outlined in 16 national, regional, state or local agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) between 17 federal agencies and the specific National Guard units. 18

There may be discrepancies between direction found in this guide and applicable helicopter contract 19 language. When discrepancies arise, the current helicopter procurement document should be followed. 20

However, if discrepancies cannot be resolved to the satisfaction of the vendor and government 21 representative, the Contracting Officer should be consulted. 22

Authority 23

The aviation directives of the participating agencies contain the authority to require implementation of 24 this guide as policy. 25

Fire Operations 26

The target group for distribution includes users and managers of helicopters, helibase management and 27 air operations personnel, and other personnel involved in helicopter operations such as aviation 28 managers, dispatchers, and project managers. 29

Resource Operations 30

The USFS, BIA, BLM, and NPS have adopted the NSHO as policy for all helicopter resource 31 operations. 32

Organization 33

The chapters of the NSHO are organized to assist the user in obtaining an understanding of standards 34 and requirements for helicopter operations. The appendices provide standard operational and 35 administrative forms, checklists, and other job aids. 36 https://www.predictiveservices.nifc.gov/intelligence/military/military_use.pdf

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 2 of 311

Chapter 02 – Personnel 1

Introduction 2

This chapter establishes common duties and responsibilities of helicopter or helibase management 3 positions. Roles and responsibilities cover both incident and resource operations. 4

Training, Qualification and Currency Requirements 5

An individual must be trained, experienced, current and certified prior to planning or participating in 6 helicopter operations. Agencies may require additional training, experience and currency standards of 7 their employees. 8

Training, qualification and currency requirements for helicopter and helibase management positions on 9 incidents are established in the NIMS: Wildland Fire Qualification System Guide, PMS 310-1, 10 https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/310-1. 11

Resource Helicopter and Helibase Management Positions 12

Training, qualification and currency requirements for DOI and USFS helicopter and helibase 13 management positions for resource missions are found in the Interagency Aviation Training (IAT) 14

Guide, https://www.iat.gov/. 15

Additional interagency guides and handbooks that contain information include: 16

DOI Law Enforcement Short-Haul Policy, https://www.doi.gov/aviation/library/guides. 17

NWCG Standards for Aerial Ignition, PMS 501, https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/501. 18

Interagency Helicopter Rappel Guide, PMS 511, https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/511. 19

DOI Helicopter Short-Haul Handbook, https://www.doi.gov/aviation/library/guides. 20

DOI Aerial Capture, Eradication, and Tagging of Animals (ACETA) Handbook, 21 https://www.doi.gov/aviation/library/guides. 22

National Interagency Fire Center, Military Use Handbook, 23 https://www.predictiveservices.nifc.gov/intelligence/military/military_use.pdf. 24

Aviation Life Support Equipment (ALSE) Handbook, 25 https://www.doi.gov/aviation/library/guides. 26

See the NWCG Glossary of Wildland Fire, PMS 205, https://www.nwcg.gov/glossary/a-z, for 27 definitions of terms used within this publication. 28 https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/310-1 https://www.iat.gov/ https://www.doi.gov/aviation/library/guides https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/501 https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/511 https://www.doi.gov/aviation/library/guides https://www.doi.gov/aviation/library/guides https://www.predictiveservices.nifc.gov/intelligence/military/military_use.pdf https://www.doi.gov/aviation/library/guides https://www.nwcg.gov/glossary/a-z

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 3 of 311

Helicopter Staffing Requirements 1

Exhibit 2.1 – Minimum Staffing for Helicopter Operations. 2

Helicopter Type

FAA

Standard/Transport

Category

FAA Standard Category

Temporarily Designated for Limited Use

FAA Standard Category

Permanently Designated for Limited Use or FAA

Restricted Category

Type 1 Helicopter Manager plus 4

Helicopter Crewmembers Manager only Manager only

Type 2 Helicopter Manager plus 3

Helicopter Crewmembers Manager only Manager only

Type 3 Helicopter Manager plus 2

Helicopter Crewmembers Manager only Manager only

The minimum required staffing levels must be filled with fully qualified personnel. Trainees may 3 be ordered in addition to the minimum staffing levels. 4

Call-When-Needed (CWN) Helicopter and Module should marry up away from the assigned 5 incident. 6

Helicopter Minimum Staffing Exceptions 7

The types of missions a helicopter may perform using the following exceptions are approved by the 8 state/regional aviation manager by assessing the risks and benefits of the individual request. 9

An Air Operations Branch Director (AOBD) or Air Support Group Supervisor (ASGS) may request 10 delegated authority to approve the following exceptions from the regional or state aviation manager. 11

Limited Use Exception 12

Helicopters designated as “Limited Use” may be staffed with fewer assigned Helicopter Crewmembers 13 than listed in Exhibit 2.1. A Helicopter designated as limited use must be staffed by a fully qualified 14

Helicopter Manager. 15

Requests for “Limited Use” will be documented using form HBM-14. 16

Typical missions performed by a limited use helicopter are those which do not require the support of 17 multiple Helicopter Crewmembers. 18

2 for 1 Exception 19

State/Regional aviation managers may allow two (2) helicopters designated as “Limited Use” or FAA 20

Restricted Category or both types to be managed by one qualified Helicopter Manager. 21

Requests for “2 for 1” will be documented using form HBM-14. 22

Required elements for approval are: 23

An order for another Helicopter Manager for the second helicopter has been placed and is 24 actively trying to be filled. 25

Both helicopters are working out of the same helibase and are physically located side-by-side. 26

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 4 of 311

A Helibase Manager is assigned. 1

Alaska Exception 2

A Helicopter Manager is assigned to all Exclusive-Use and CWN helicopters in Alaska. No additional 3

Helicopter Crewmembers are required unless otherwise requested. 4

NWCG Incident Position Descriptions 5

For the following positions, position standards (including position descriptions and minimum position 6 requirements for training, experience, physical fitness, and position currency) are located in the NWCG 7

Position Catalog, https://www.nwcg.gov/positions: 8

Helicopter Manager (HMGB), https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/hmgb, 9

Helicopter Crew Member (HECM), https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/hecm, 10

Helibase Manager (HEBM), https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/hebm, 11

Deck Coordinator (DECK), https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/deck, 12

Aircraft Base Radio Operator (ABRO), https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/abro, 13

Mix Master Retardant (MXMS), https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/mxms, and 14

Helicopter Coordinator (HLCO), https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/hlco. 15

Non-NWCG Helicopter Management Personnel Roles and Responsibilities 16

Helicopter Flight Manager 17

Missions may be supervised by a Helicopter Flight Manager who has been trained and is qualified to 18 conduct helicopter missions. These missions are limited to: 19

Point-to-point transport of personnel from one developed heliport/helibase or airport to another 20 developed heliport/helibase or airport. 21

Reconnaissance missions both below 500’ above ground level (AGL) and above 500’ AGL. 22

Landings at or takeoffs from improved or unimproved sites. 23

Helicopter Flight Manager Duties and Responsibilities 24

1. Coordinate with scheduling office, pilot, and users on flight planning. 25

2. Complete required administrative and operational forms specified in Appendix A and optional 26 forms as required by local aviation management. 27

3. Ensure required personal protective equipment is available and used correctly. 28

4. Perform preflight briefing and ensure a preflight passenger briefing by the pilot is accomplished 29 prior to the flight; verification that the aircraft and pilot are approved and authorized for the type 30 operation to be conducted by checking Interagency Helicopter Pilot Qualification Card and 31

Aircraft Data Card. 32

5. Ensure flight following and resource tracking is performed; perform a preflight radio check. 33

6. Ensure load calculation and manifests are completed correctly. 34

7. Ensure, except in an emergency, there is no deviation from established flight plan or type of 35 intended use unless such deviation is relayed and/or approved through identified procedures and 36 that any requirements of such a deviation are met. 37 https://www.nwcg.gov/positions https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/hmgb https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/hecm https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/hebm https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/deck https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/abro https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/mxms https://www.nwcg.gov/positions/hlco

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 5 of 311

8. Assist the pilot in aerial hazard identification; ensure a high-level reconnaissance is made prior to 1 flight less than 500’ AGL. 2

9. Report any deviations from planned flight or normal operations immediately using agency 3 incident/hazard report. 4

10. When requested, assist pilot in loading and unloading passengers and cargo. 5

11. Ensure flight payment documents are accurate and submitted according to direction found in 6 procurement document. 7

Pilot 8

The pilot is an essential part of any aviation mission and must be made an integral part of a team effort 9 whose objective is flight safety and efficiency. The pilot is in command of the aircraft and has ultimate 10 responsibility, under both FAA and agency regulations, for the safety of the aircraft and its occupants. 11

The pilot’s decisions and judgment are final. No agency employee must explicitly or implicitly ask or 12 require a Pilot to perform any mission or flight maneuver which compromises flight safety. 13

Pilot Duties and Responsibilities 14

1. Adheres to Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), agency regulations (for agency pilots), and the 15 requirements of the procurement document (vendor pilots). 16

2. As applicable, coordinates with dispatcher, helicopter manager, and/or Helibase Manager on 17 project or incident planning and logistics; reviews manifests and intended loads to ensure aircraft 18 is capable of performing the mission; is responsible for knowledge of hazards in area of 19 operations. 20

3. Ensures that all aircraft and communications equipment is in good condition and operable; 21 performs flight following as required by the agency. 22

4. Carries a current Interagency Helicopter Pilot Qualification Card; ensures the Aircraft Data Card 23 is physically present in the aircraft; presents the card upon request. 24

5. Military, cooperator and other-government agency aircraft may have non-carded aircraft or pilots 25 but a copy of the approving document must be available. 26

6. Performs aircraft preflight using an approved checklist and preflight safety briefing of 27 passengers, or delegates the briefing responsibility to qualified personnel. 28

7. Completes Helicopter Load Calculation using applicable aircraft Flight Manual Performance 29

Chart(s); ensures that payload does not exceed allowable payload. 30

8. Meets contract requirements for fueling using approved static bonding procedures. 31

9. Is responsible for the security of the aircraft. 32

10. Except in an emergency, does not deviate from flight plan without relaying change to appropriate 33 dispatch office or other flight following facility; does not descend below 500 feet AGL unless 34 such flight has been authorized in advance or an in- flight deviation is approved; makes no 35 descent below 500 feet AGL without first performing a high-level reconnaissance of the 36 operations area to identify hazards. 37

11. Wears personal protective equipment as required by agency directive (agency Pilots) or the 38 procurement document (vendor Pilots). 39

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 6 of 311

12. Completes flight payment documents per agency or procurement document direction. 1

13. Speaks English fluently and communicates clearly. 2

14. Responsible for transporting hazardous materials in accordance with federal, state. and local 3 requirements. 4

15. Follows FAA-approved company operational specifications. 5

Helibase/Helispot Management 6

See the NWCG Glossary of Wildland Fire, PMS 205, https://www.nwcg.gov/glossary/a-z for definitions 7 of helibase, helispot, and unimproved landing sites. 8

Further information on specific requirements for helibase and helispot management can be found in 9

Chapter 15 or other appropriate chapter(s) of this guide. 10

Unless otherwise specified, the following job descriptions apply to both incident and resource 11 operations. 12

Helispot Manager 13

Helispot Managers are responsible for providing safe and efficient management of all helicopter 14 activities at the assigned helispot. The Helibase Manager assigns the position of Helispot Manager to a 15 person assigned to manage the aviation operations at a location physically separate from the helibase. A 16

Helispot Manager performs under the supervision of the Helibase Manager. 17

Helispots are physically separate from the helibase, resulting in the inability of the Helibase Manager to 18 oversee and monitor helispot operations, it is essential that the Helibase Manager assign the most 19 capable person based on the complexity and nature of the assignment. 20

Minimum training, qualification and currency requirements of the Helispot Manager position on 21 incidents are outlined in the NIMS: Wildland Fire Qualification System Guide, PMS 310-1, 22 https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/310-1, within the position of Helicopter Crewmember. 23

Prior to the start of operations, the Helibase Manager should extensively review Helispot Manager 24 duties and responsibilities, as well as the load capability planning forms in Appendices A and B. 25

Environmental considerations may affect the construction of a helispot. However, at no time will aircraft 26 or personnel safety be compromised. Significant helispot improvements such as the cutting of numerous 27 trees should be cleared by the Helibase Manager with a higher-level authority, for example, the AOBD 28 or Project Aviation Manager in consultation with the Resource Advisor. 29

Helispot Manager Duties and Responsibilities 30

1. Obtain briefing from Helibase Manager and obtain the following forms: Incident Action or 31

Project Aviation Safety Plan; Air Operations Summary, ICS-220; and Incident Radio 32

Communications Plan, ICS 205, if available. 33

2. Ensure that qualified HECMs are assigned to assist in helispot management, providing on-the-34 job training as necessary; conduct regular briefings with helispot crew; ensure all assigned 35 personnel understand their responsibilities and authority; manage resources/supplies dispatched 36 to helispot. 37

3. Obtain necessary equipment and supplies for the operation of the helispot (tools, fire 38 extinguishers, wind indicators, etc.) 39 https://www.nwcg.gov/glossary/a-z https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/310-1

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 7 of 311

4. On incidents, ensure that all helispot personnel are capable of and prepared to perform fire 1 suppression duties in and around the helispot; ensure that helispot crew is equipped to remain 2 overnight, even in adverse weather conditions. 3

5. Obtain allowable payload information for the helispot for each assigned helicopter, utilizing 4 forms outlined in Appendices A and B. 5

6. Obtain transportation and report to the assigned helispot; establish radio communications with 6 the helibase; provide the Helibase Manager with initial or additional information for the Helispot 7

Information Summary. 8

7. Ensure that all helispot personnel and personnel to be transported wear required personal 9 protective equipment. 10

8. Ensure the helispot and landing pad is constructed and prepared properly to ensure safe use of 11 the highest gross weight helicopter and/or helicopter with the largest diameter rotor blades; 12 construct the helispot according to safety standards; if required, obtain approval prior to making 13 improvements. 14

9. Install wind indicators and sign the area perimeter as necessary; perform any necessary aerial and 15 ground hazard reduction and safety improvements. 16

10. Anticipate dust abatement needs and provide or request as necessary. 17

11. Make crash rescue equipment such as fire extinguishers available. 18

12. Number and map the helispot in coordination with the Helibase Manager. 19

13. Ensure that flight routes and area hazards are made known to all Pilots; ensure communications 20 and Parking Tender(s) are in place. 21

14. Complete manifests accurately for all flights originating from assigned helispot; perform 22 manifesting, briefing, and loading of personnel and cargo. 23

15. Return external load equipment (nets, leadlines, and swivels) and excess firefighting equipment 24 to the helibase promptly. 25

16. Inform Helibase Manager of helispot activities; coordinate activities and requests for air support 26 with the Helibase Manager. 27

17. If applicable, supervise or perform water or retardant loading at helispot. 28

18. Maintain records and reports of helicopter activities for later inclusion in the Helicopter Daily 29

Use and Cost Summary. 30

19. If returned to the helibase, attend the nightly debriefing and provide feedback on day’s 31 operations; otherwise, provide by radio. 32

Parking Tender (PARK) 33

The Parking Tender is supervised by the DECK and is responsible for ground and air traffic in and 34 around the assigned landing pad and for the landing and parking of helicopters at that pad. 35

Parking Tenders should be fully briefed regarding responsibility for the landing pad to which each is 36 assigned, as well as the helicopter(s) assigned to the pad. Parking Tender should perform the bulk of 37 their duties from outside the safety circle. 38

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 8 of 311

Minimum training, qualification and currency requirements of the Parking Tender position on incidents 1 are outlined in the NIMS Wildland Fire Qualification System Guide, PMS 310-1, 2 https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/310-1, within the position of Helicopter Crewmember. 3

Parking Tender Duties and Responsibilities 4

1. Obtain briefing from the DECK; obtain radio frequencies and other information necessary to 5 perform the job. 6

2. Supervise activities at the assigned landing pad, including personnel, ground vehicle, and 7 helicopter movement. 8

3. Know and understand crash rescue procedures; ensure that extinguishers are placed at the 9 landing pad; be responsible for extinguisher operation in the event of fire either on landing, 10 takeoff, or refueling. 11

4. Ensure touchdown pad is properly prepared, numbered, and maintained. 12

5. Ensure adequate communications between the pad, Pilot, DECK, and ABRO. 13

6. Know and understand helicopter hand signals; provide wind advisories and other landing, 14 takeoff, and holding directions to the Pilot; assist the Pilot as needed when the helicopter is 15 departing, approaching, or is on the landing pad. Communication with the Pilot may be done 16 either through hand signals or by way of radio communication. Positive communication over the 17 radio by the Parking Tender via a patch cord and flight helmet is the preferred method. Parking 18

Tender should be positioned outside the safety circle. 19

7. Be alert for potential conflicts between inbound and/or outbound aircraft. Coordinate with 20

Loadmasters on the loading and unloading of personnel and cargo; ensure that loading personnel 21 check personnel seat belts, cargo restraints, and helicopter doors prior to departing the area. 22

8. Monitor the fueling of helicopters; report any problems to the Helibase Manager. 23

9. Wear high-visibility clothing to distinguish from other personnel. 24

10. Coordinate frequently with DECK; attend the nightly debriefing and provide feedback on 25 problems encountered; recommend corrective action. 26

Loadmaster (Personnel or Cargo) 27

The Loadmaster is assigned and supervised by the DECK and is responsible for the safe loading and 28 unloading of personnel and/or cargo. 29

It is essential that all Loadmasters be briefed concerning the characteristics of each make/model 30 helicopter assigned, as well as standard Aircraft Safety Briefing procedures, personnel/cargo weighing. 31

Loadmaster Duties and Responsibilities 32

1. Obtain briefing from DECK; obtain radio frequencies and other information necessary to 33 perform the job. 34

2. Ensure designation and signing of crew and cargo staging areas and of egress and ingress routes 35 to the deck. 36

3. Obtain sufficient personnel resources to load personnel and cargo; supervise personnel assigned 37 to loading positions, to include: 38

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 9 of 311

a. Ensure the safety and welfare of personnel (both agency and contract) assigned; ensuring all 1 personnel understand their responsibility and authority; monitoring their actions to ensure 2 duties and responsibilities are correctly performed 3

b. Conducting briefings of subordinates. 4

4. Ensuring personal protective equipment is worn by both personnel assigned to the deck and by 5 personnel being transported. 6

5. Meeting timekeeping, eating, sleeping, and transportation needs. 7

6. Supervise the manifesting of personnel and cargo according to requirements: 8

7. Ensure that appropriate hazardous materials regulations are enforced as outlined in the NWCG 9

Standards for Aviation Transport of Hazardous Materials, PMS 513, 10 https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/513. 11

8. Ensure the Pilot is aware of weight and nature of all loads being transported. 12

9. Supervise loading and unloading crews. 13

10. Ensure all passengers receive preflight briefings. 14

11. Ensure external load equipment is checked for proper operation before use. 15

12. Know and understand crash rescue procedures; inform personnel of helibase and helicopter crash 16 rescue procedures. 17

13. Coordinate with ABRO and Parking Tenders. 18

14. Coordinate frequently with the DECK; attend the nightly debriefing and provide feedback on 19 problems encountered; recommend corrective action. 20

Dipsite Manager 21

A Dipsite Manager is responsible for monitoring aviation activities at the assigned dipsite(s) mitigating 22 hazards as required, maintaining communications with pilots and other ICS positions, and providing for 23 crash rescue/emergency response in the case of a mishap. The Dipsite Manager is assigned as needed to 24 a natural or man-made water/retardant source(s). 25

A Dipsite Manager typically performs under the supervision of the Helibase Manager in coordination 26 with the assigned Division Supervisor or Task Force Leader when applicable. It is recommended that the 27 assigned Dipsite Manager is a qualified helicopter crewmember. 28

Dipsite Manager Duties and Responsibilities 29

1. Obtain briefing from Helibase Manager, (or assigning official); obtain Incident Action Plan or 30

Project Aviation Safety Plan, Air Operations Summary (ICS-220), Incident Radio 31

Communications Plan (ICS-205), and local Mishap Response Plan/Crash Rescue Plan, 32 commensurate with incident complexity. 33

2. Conduct briefings as necessary with dipsite personnel i.e. water tender, pump operator, law 34 enforcement, etc. Ensure assigned personnel understand their duties and responsibilities. 35

3. Obtain necessary equipment and supplies for the operation of the dipsite, i.e. radios, tools, fire 36 extinguishers, crash rescue kits, wind indicators, etc. Include a VHF-AM radio when available to 37 monitor the assigned rotor wing air-to-air frequency. 38 https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/513

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 10 of 311

4. Dipsite personnel should be prepared to perform fire suppression and/or crash rescue duties in 1 and around the dipsite. 2

5. Report to the assigned dipsite; establish and maintain radio communications with the helibase, 3 pilots and Division Supervisor when applicable. Provide the Helibase Manager with initial 4 and/or additional dipsite specific information for dissemination to assigned pilots and Helicopter 5

Managers. 6

6. When applicable, communicate with the public and/or coordinate with law enforcement/public 7 safety official(s) to assure that the public are clear of dipsite operations and not exposed to 8 hazards. 9

7. Perform any necessary hazard reduction and safety improvements 10

8. Install wind indicators and sign the area perimeter as needed. 11

9. Anticipate dust abatement needs and provide or request as needed. 12

10. Make crash rescue equipment such as fire extinguishers and crash rescue kits available, visible, 13 and accessible. 14

11. Name and map the dipsite in coordination with the Helibase Manager and Aerial Supervisor. 15

12. Monitor aircraft separation; ensure that flight routes and area hazards are made known to all 16 pilots. 17

13. Identify an emergency landing area near the dipsite. Identify a landing area where helicopter 18 equipment troubleshooting can occur. 19

14. Identify escape routes for dipsite personnel in case of helicopter mishap at the dipsite. 20

15. Maintain records and reports of dipsite activities and as requested. 21

16. Report to Helibase Manager, Air Attack and Division Supervisor upon staffing/unstaffing of 22 assigned dipsite as well as return to helibase, (or other assigned destination). 23

17. At the end of each operational period, provide feedback on the day's operations to the Helibase 24

Manager. 25

Law Enforcement Helicopter Positions 26

Sensitive mission requirements and objectives may require security clearances of personnel participating 27 in the mission. Any individual deemed not suitable for the mission by the law enforcement officer 28

(LEO) must be removed from the operation and documentation of the action taken must be submitted to 29 the Unit Aviation Manager. 30

All law enforcement aviation operations using helicopters must, depending on the mission profile, be 31 conducted either by a qualified Resource or Incident Helicopter Manager or by a Helicopter Flight 32

Manager. 33

It is recommended that a qualified LEOs fill the Helicopter Manager position. 34

The one exception to personnel being required to fulfill the above requirements is when the agency is 35 using other-government agency or military aircraft, and the provider of the aircraft is also providing all 36 helicopter and/or helibase management services, e.g., flight following, loading/unloading of personnel 37 and/or cargo, external load operations., etc. 38

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 11 of 311

Any law enforcement personnel participating as a Helicopter Crewmember, and not solely as a 1 passenger being transported, must meet the requirements for a Resource Helicopter Crewmember. 2

All law enforcement personnel filling helibase positions must meet the training, qualification and 3 currency requirements of the position outlined in the NIMS Wildland Fire Qualification System Guide, 4

PMS 310-1, https://www.nwcg.gov/publications/310-1. 5

Pilots from other law enforcement agencies, the National Guard, or DoD must be either approved 6 through a Memorandum of Understanding or similar agreement, or must possess a current Interagency 7

Helicopter Pilot Qualification Card. 8

Sensitive mission requirements may require security clearances of the Pilot and/or vendor to ensure 9 mission integrity. Law Enforcement Helicopter Managers are responsible for informing the scheduling 10 unit of any such requirements. 11

Search and Rescue Helicopter and Helibase Personnel 12

Helicopter Managers and Crewmembers performing search and rescue missions must meet resource 13 requirements for helicopter or helibase management, as well as associated duties and responsibilities for 14 each position filled. 15

Military Helicopter Personnel 16

See Chapter 70 of the National Interagency Fire Center, Military Use Handbook, located at 17 https://www.predictiveservices.nifc.gov/intelligence/military/military_use.pdf for operational 18 procedures regarding personnel associated with the use of military aviation. 19

Aerial Capture, Eradication, and Tagging Of Animals (ACETA) Helicopter Positions 20

Vendors who provide gunners and muggers for ACETA operations are not required to adhere to the 21 agency personnel requirements outlined below. 22

The Helicopter Manager of an ACETA operation must meet the requirements for a Resource Helicopter 23

Manager. 24

ACETA Helicopter Manager Duties and Responsibilities 25

1. Ensures that Pilot and aircraft are carded and certified for ACETA operations. 26

2. Ensures dual controls are removed prior to commencement of the ACETA operation. 27

3. Ensures crew and passengers wear PPE as specified in the ALSE Handbook, as well as in 28 agency-specific manuals and handbooks 29

4. Ensures all cargo is restrained according to requirements. 30

5. The Gunner of an ACETA operation must: 31

Operate appropriate weapon(s); ensures the weapon is not loaded or cocked unless the 32 muzzle is outside and pointed away from the aircraft. 33

Identify the animals(s) to target. 34

Ensure adequate covering for protection of control mechanism and under seat area to prevent 35 ejected shells, etc., from interfering with controls. 36

6. The HECM participating on an ACETA operation as a mugger must meet the requirements for a 37

Resource HECM. 38 https://www.predictiveservices.nifc.gov/intelligence/military/military_use.pdf

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 12 of 311

7. All agency personnel filling helibase positions on an ACETA project must meet position 1 requirements. 2

8. ACETA Pilots must be carded for the ACETA mission and specific animals targeted. 3

9. If single-skid, step-out, or toe-in landings are to be performed, Single-skid Toe-in Exit 4

Procedures (STEP) training is required as well as an approved exemption granted by the 5 appropriate agency aviation manager. 6

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 13 of 311

Chapter 03 – Operational Planning 1

Introduction 2

It is essential that aviation operations be planned with consideration given to safety and operational 3 efficiency. Missions can be accomplished safely and efficiently, provided that a high degree of planning, 4 risk analysis and management is applied. The success of a project or flight is affected by the ability to 5 anticipate and influence events before they occur. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) have been 6 developed to help streamline the planning process, incorporate the lessons learned from experience, and 7 use the best practices that balance the demands for safety and efficiency. 8

The planning process includes several steps as a project or flight is considered. Initial planning tasks 9 include determining objectives, risk assessment and contingency planning. Once these primary tasks are 10 completed the process continues with aircraft selection and mission profile and planning that is more 11 operational in nature. 12

Developing Objectives and Contingency Planning 13

Objectives 14

The objectives for a project or particular flight will affect the planning and decision making process. To 15 be effective and support the overall goals of the organization, objectives must be clear, concise, 16 achievable, and measurable. 17

Achievable does not necessarily mean easy, but expectations should be reasonable. 18

Measurable on some quantifiable scale so success can be determined. 19

Contingency Planning 20

Preparation is the key to flexibility. Considering multiple options in the planning stage rather than 21 relying on one course of action will lead to success. Options based on “What If?” questions should be 22 considered during the planning phase: 23

What if the flight is delayed? 24

What if the passengers are late? 25

What if the meals for the spike crews aren’t delivered as scheduled? 26

It is easier to do contingency planning in advance rather than on short notice during active operations. 27

Contingency planning should be detailed. Projects should be broken down into individual missions and 28 missions should be broken down to their smallest elements. These elements should be ranked according 29 to their importance, such as, “What’s going to stop progress?” or “What elements are essential?” After 30 considering what can go wrong with each mission element, specific solutions can be developed. 31

Risk Management 32

This section is directed toward risk management as it applies to helicopter and helibase field operations. 33

Risk management is an ongoing process. 34

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 14 of 311

Risk Management Principles 1

These basic decision making principles must be applied before any anticipated job, task, or mission is 2 performed: 3

1. Accept no unnecessary risk. The most logical choices for accomplishing a mission are those 4 that meet all the mission requirements while exposing personnel and resources to the lowest 5 possible risk. 6

2. Make risk decisions at the appropriate level. Making risk decisions at the appropriate level 7 establishes clear accountability. Those accountable for the success or failure of a mission must 8 be included in the risk decision process. Supervisors at all levels must ensure subordinates know 9 how much risk they can accept and when they must elevate the decision to a higher level. 10

3. Accept risk when benefit outweighs cost. Weighing risks against opportunities and benefits 11 helps to maximize unit capability. Even high-risk endeavors may be undertaken when there is 12 clear knowledge that the sum of the benefits exceeds the sum of the costs. 13

4. Integrate risk management into planning and execution at all levels. To effectively apply 14 risk management, leaders at all levels must dedicate time and resources to incorporate risk 15 management principles into the planning and execution phases of all operations. Integrating risk 16 management into planning as early as possible provides the decision maker with the greatest 17 opportunity to apply risk management principles. 18

Time Element in Risk Management 19

Performing risk management is limited by the amount of time available for planning and requires 20 flexibility and judgment by both Pilots and air operations supervisors. 21

Risk management can be divided into three categories according to time element. 22

Time Critical 23

This type of risk management is an “on-the-run” mental or verbal review of the situation using the risk 24 management process without necessarily recording the information. The process is often used to make 25 decisions in a time limited situation. Many of the skills used in this context are applicable to normal 26 mission where deliberate risk management has occurred and crews must manage risk in a dynamic 27 situation. 28

Search and rescue missions also fall in this category. Encountering unexpected winds at a helispot is 29 another common occurrence, where the pilot must rapidly assess the risk and determine whether to land, 30 attempt to land at another spot farther from the objective, or abort the mission and return to base. 31

Deliberate 32

This type is used when planning time permits. It involves risk identification, evaluation, consideration of 33 control options and risk decision making, implementation of controls, and supervision. Note that all of 34 these may be applied to time critical risk management; however, the time frame in which the rapid 35 examination is performed is compressed by the urgency of the situation. This is the type of risk 36 assessment that should be performed by the AOBD while completing the form ICS 220; by the Helibase 37

Manager while briefing personnel and discussing intended missions, and by project personnel when 38 planning a flight mission days or weeks in advance. 39

NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations 15 of 311

For example, if a Wild Horse and Burro Specialist knows that a census in a certain area is required at a 1 specific time of year, there is ample time to identify and evaluate hazards (wires, military training 2 routes, deep canyons, etc.), develop and implement controls (for example, coordinate with the military 3 to deconflict airspace) and supervise preparations for the mission. 4

Strategic/In-Depth 5

This type should be used in instances where new technology is being proposed, when risks appear high, 6 and time and resources allow thorough assessment. Risk management at this level requires more 7 sophisticated techniques and professional reviews. 8

An example would be the Safety Management System testing and implementation of a new aerial firing 9 device, new external load method, or new method of personnel delivery. In these cases, handbooks and 10 operating procedures must also be developed and/or revised. 11

Risk Management Process 12

During mission planning, risk decisions should be made at a level of command that corresponds to the 13 degree of risk. For personnel at the field level a general field appraisal may often be sufficient and may 14 be accomplished through the use of one of the risk management tools discussed in Appendix G. 15

Risk management tools are found in Appendix G. 16

Medium-risk decisions should be elevated to a somewhat higher level (for example, to the AOBD or 17

Project Aviation Manager level). Low-risk decisions can usually be made at the Helibase Manager or 18

Helicopter Manager level. See Appendix G for guidance. 19

During mission planning, risk decisions should be made at a level of command that corresponds to the 20 degree of risk. The Pilot and/or Helicopter Manager always have the authority to decline the mission. 21

How to Properly Refuse Risk 22

Every individual (government and contract) has the obligation to report safety problems affecting his or 23 her safety and has the responsibility to contribute ideas to correct the hazard. In return, supervisors are 24 expected to give these concerns and ideas serious consideration. When an individual feels an assignment 25 is unsafe, he or she also has the obligation to identify, to the degree possible, safe alternatives for 26 completing that assignment.