CLEARED FOR LANDING
Chris Wood, Operations Manager at Safeguard Helidecks provides insight into the rigorous process of certifying helidecks for safe aviation onboard superyachts
In the superyacht world, where advanced engineering and design converge, one critical aspect often operates quietly in the background: helideck inspections. With helicopters becoming a frequent feature onboard, ensuring that helidecks meet stringent safety standards is essential for both operational efficiency and passenger
safety.
Safeguard Helidecks is an Aviation Inspection Body (AIB), authorised by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and numerous Flag States to inspect and certify helidecks for commercial operations onboard superyachts around the world. But what does this entail?
Helicopter landing areas on superyachts present unique challenges, especially as yacht designs evolve to include multiple helidecks. This shift introduces the potential for concurrent flying operations, that could pose significant safety hazards. “Early engagement is key,” Chris explains, “By involving Safeguard Helidecks during the design stage, yacht owners and designers can benefit from expert advice on deck loading, emergency protocols, air flow disruptions and the optimal placement of helideck equipment. This early collaboration ensures that safety is woven into the fabric of the yacht’s design from the outset, avoiding costly or time- consuming adjustments later down the line.”
A crucial consideration is the type of helicopter that the owner plans to operate. “The deck loading requirements for a smaller H125 helicopter are drastically different from those of a larger H175. If this isn’t factored in during the design phase, later modifications could affect both the functionality and the aesthetics of the yacht – delaying its completion. Safeguard Helidecks works closely with design teams to prevent such pitfalls, streamlining the certification process and ensuring that both safety and style are maintained.
Once the yacht is ready for operation, Safeguard Helideck’s work doesn’t stop. Their team provides hands-on, annual helideck inspections to assess everything from the landing area dimensions and markings, to friction levels and structural soundness. They also evaluate fire detection and extinguishing systems, emergency procedures and the documentation supporting helicopter operations onboard. Following a thorough inspection, the team issues a Helicopter Landing Area Inspection Report (HLAIR) and, if all criteria are met, a Helicopter Landing Areas Certificate (HLAC) valid for 12 months. The Safeguard Helidecks team also conduct comprehensive debriefs with the yacht’s crew, equipping them with the knowledge required to maintain safe operations throughout the year.
The ability to seamlessly integrate air and sea travel opens up new levels of convenience for yacht owners, but it comes with significant responsibilities. Ensuing that helicopters can take off, land, and be maintained safely requires a team of experts dedicated to aviation safety.
Safeguard Helidecks brings over 60 years of combined maritime aviation experience to each inspection. With team members who have served as pilots, aircrew, flight deck officers, safety specialists, engineers and naval architects, the company embodies expertise in all areas of helicopter operations at sea. “We live and breathe maritime aviation,” Chris adds, “Our goal is to ensure that superyacht owners can enjoy helicopter operations in the safest way possible.”
For more information on how Safeguard Helidecks can support your aviation needs visit: www.safeguardhelidecks.com
