Title: Helicopters Flying In Circles – Why Do They Do That? – Pilot Teacher
Headings: Helicopters Flying In Circles – Why Do They Do That?
Helicopters Flying In Circles – Why Do They Do That?
Why Do Helicopters Circle Overhead?
Why Does A Helicopter Circle Before Landing?
Circling Vs Hovering
Hovering
Circling
H/V Diagram
To Finish
Further Reading:
Rick James
Aircraft Cockpits: Why Are There So Many Buttons!!?
What Do Pilots Use iPads For? More Thank You Think!

Content: Are any of these in the way during approach, landing, or departure? Sun – Will the glare of the sun on the window obscure vision when approaching to land? Shape – What is the shape of the clear area to land, long and skinny or wide open? This can dictate the direction of approach to land
Slope – Is the ground sloping where the pilot wants to land. Most helicopters have between a 5-10° slope landing limitation
Landing Spot – Is the landing spot clear of obstructions, debris, people etc
All of these factors need to be assessed before the pilot formulates the best plan to safely approach, land, and depart the spot. The easiest way the pilot can do this is by using 2 orbits: High Orbit – Usually 500ft above the spot to look for the main objects, asses wind, and look at the approach and departure paths
Low Orbit – Usually 100ft – 200ft above the spot for final observations of the exact landing point
A good, experienced pilot can do all of this in 1-2 orbits while descending to start the approach. Most orbits will be done clockwise as most helicopter pilots sit on the right side of the helicopter. This will give the pilot the best view of the entire area. Flying an orbit also helps to views possible hidden obstacles.