Step-out Landings

Step-out Landings

Step-out landings refer to a landing technique where a helicopter hovers in mid-air to drop off or pick up passengers and cargo, excluding rappel or short haul operations. Unlike other types of landings, the helicopter remains off the ground and is not in contact with any surface. This hovering technique enables the helicopter to shift laterally and longitudinally, allowing safe and efficient loading and unloading of people and goods.

Step-out landings are particularly useful in challenging environments where conventional landings are not possible due to terrain constraints, obstructions, or other factors. This technique is frequently employed in situations where the helicopter cannot land and reduce power to flat pitch, making toe-in/single-skid landings impractical.

Overall, step-out landings require excellent pilot skill, coordination, and a thorough understanding of the aircraft’s performance and limitations. A subtle shift in the center of gravity during hovering can have significant consequences, so pilots must exercise caution and precision when performing this maneuver.