Helicopters aren't more dangerous than other types of aircraft. They're just built differently and as such, must be approached in the standard way to ensure the safety of both the pilot and his passengers. Whether it's your first solo helicopter flight or your 10th, it pays to have some safety and common sense tips in mind.
Be aware of how differently the helicopter works. If you're flying a helicopter, you've probably gone through the basic lectures, but it's important you don't forget how a helicopter moves and what factors are involved to make it fly.
The helicopter is all about action and reaction. Learn how to balance these two to maintain and regulate the craft's collective pitch and control its vertical and horizontal movements.
Keep your concentration. A helicopter is an aircraft you have to continually monitor. Be aware of the control inputs you use to correct any deviations your helicopter might make from its flight plan. If you can set up the helicopter accurately, the less you'll have to worry about corrections later.
Always have excess fuel. Helicopters aren't as fuel efficient as airplanes. Before you fly a helicopter, map out your flight plan and determine how much fuel you'll consume to complete the flight or at least make it to a refueling station. Some helicopters are notoriously voracious when it comes to energy.
To make sure you'll have a safe flight, always have enough fuel to last you an hour more. Say for example you're flying a one-hour complete flight - that's 30 minutes to your destination and 30 minutes back. Have at least 2 hours' worth of fuel on your helicopter to ensure you don't run out. Certain factors that may contribute to a delay in landing such as sudden change in weather or a problem in the landing area might necessitate finding another place to land. Have enough fuel for just such emergencies.
Be responsible for your passengers As the helicopter pilot, you are considered the commander of the aircraft and in your hands rests the well being and safety of your passengers. Before the flight, brief your passengers about safety - how to approach, embark and disembark, how to secure themselves to the seat, how to use the doors, where to find the necessary things like the first aid kit and the life jacket and what to do in case of an emergency. This is especially helpful if you're the only pilot on the helicopter and all the rest are passengers.
