Safety Notice SN017 – Pilot Distractions
Flying any helicopter is very different than piloting a fixed wing aircraft. While the later models of the Safari Helicopter have several features to reduce pilot workload, flying a helicopter is a full time activity.
The controls of a fixed wing aircraft may be released for extended periods of time, depending on how the aircraft is equipped. Once at altitude, an auto-pilot may allow the pilot to engage in other activities.
A small helicopter requires the constant attention and input of the pilot. Consulting charts or GPS, programming avionics, or attending to a passenger are common activities in a fixed wing aircraft. In a helicopter, they are dangerous distractions.
When in flight, the pilot’s attention must be focused outside the helicopter and on the instruments and controls. When dealing with a distraction that occurs, reduce power, slow down and identify a landing site.
When hovering, keep both hands on the controls.