What is a helicopter hover check? Before you commit to takeoff, an initial check in the hover allows the pilot to observe the helicopter performance in a stabilized hover, to evaluate:
- Actual hover power required (does it seem accurate to performance charts?)
- Engine, transmission and rotor (main & tail) performance at a relatively high power setting
- Actual weight and balance (did you forget the ballast left under the seat??)
- Skids not caught up on anything (fuel hose, tiedown, etc.)
- Wind affects (still want to go fly?)
- Instrument check – all in normal position/range?
There have been more than a few accidents that could have been avoided if the pilot took just 30 seconds to do a proper check while hovering, before pulling up collective for an immediate departure.
Watch the short Helicopter Tips 007 video:
Related Videos
- Check out the complete Helicopter Tips Series of videos
- Follow a student from Day 1 to Private Pilot in this full length Flight Training Series
More Info
- FAA Safety Alert for Operators – Helicopter Stabilized Hover Checks Before Departure (PDF)
- 2008 accident EC135 departing a rooftop with one engine at idle (PDF)
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