Pterodactyl Helicopters wishes to advise you of the following tips and safety information to avoid any inconveniences prior to or during your charter helicopter flight.
Boarding/Itineries
It is recommended that helicopter passengers arrive at the helipad 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure, especially if the charter itinerary is time critical. The helicopter flight times indicated on the quote are nil wind and may vary subject to weather conditions.
Helicopter Passenger/Baggage Weights
Particularly in helicopters, baggage space is usually very limited. If baggage is to be carried on the helicopter flight please notify our staff of the expected size, weight and number of bags. This will help avoid inconveniences on the day. We consider it our job to make your helicopter flight as easy and convenient as possible. We are constantly exploring how to improve your experience with us, through added comfort or entertainment options. For example, as soon as broadband becomes available on helicopter flights, rest assured you will be the first to know. However, safety is of course our first and foremost priority.
Normally individual helicopter passenger weights are required to ensure the helicopter is loaded within weight and balance limitations and for fuel planning purposes. Helicopters, like most aircraft, are generally designed to have a trade off between payload (passengers and freight) able to be carried and fuel. Sometimes a helicopter will not be able to carry its full seat capacity due to fuel requirements and weight limitations. Standard adult passenger weights are calculated at 86 kg for males and 74 kg for females. Particularly if heavier than these weights, the flight may have to be limited to fewer passengers. The Max single passenger weight for the Bell 47 helicopter is 145kg and for the Robinson R44 helicopter is 130kg.
Helicopter Fuel Stops
Sometimes the helicopter may have to stop for fuel en route. This would generally add about 20 minutes to the flight, however it is a good opportunity to get out and stretch your legs. If the helicopter is heavily loaded, more fuel stops may be required than if a lighter load were carried.
Helicopter Safety
Safety around helicopters is vitally important, particularly when the main and tail rotor blades are in motion. It is vitally important that you pay particular attention to the helicopter flight crew when they are directing you in and out of the helicopter, and when briefing you on the helicopter’s safety features and procedures.
Additional Information
Smoking is not permitted on or around aircraft.
Dangerous goods (such as aerosols, paint, matches, gas stoves, firearms/ammunition etc ) are normally not permitted onboard aircraft and must be declared to your helicopter flight crew prior to loading/boarding to ensure the safety of your flight.
For further information, please contact our charter managers who would be more than happy to discuss any issues with you to ensure the safety and efficiency of your charter flight.
For aerial photography it is best to have clear skies or overcast conditions so shadows don’t get in the shot.
Maximum Wind 20kts
