Helecopter

Jamie4590 wrote:

Just wondering, Do helecoptors only fly VFR or can they fly IFR too?

Some helicopters can fly IFR or more accurately, IMC. It's not normally required because helicopter have a different VFR visibility and ceiling requirement than fixed wing aircraft. The Robinson R22 can't fly IMC but the Sikorsky S-76(two person crew) can. The short range, ability to slow to a hover and the normal operational way most helicopters are used, make IMC flight normally unnecessary. 🙂

I see. Thanks. 👍

also a few of Bells birds do, helicopters do fly IFR it is just a different type of IFR

CRJCapt wrote:

Jamie4590 wrote:

Just wondering, Do helecoptors only fly VFR or can they fly IFR too?

Some helicopters can fly IFR or more accurately, IMC. It's not normally required because helicopter have a different VFR visibility and ceiling requirement than fixed wing aircraft. The Robinson R22 can't fly IMC but the Sikorsky S-76(two person crew) can. The short range, ability to slow to a hover and the normal operational way most helicopters are used, make IMC flight normally unnecessary. 🙂

Not always the case. I know someone who flys drill parts in BC and he almost always flies in IMC. Keep in mind that he is hovering VERY close to the mountains. So percsion flying is a must

There is only one IFR but there are different definitions of IMC based on regulations, don't confuse IFR and IMC. Helicopters flying close to mountains is VMC(for a helicopter) not IFR.

IFR- Instrument Flight Rules: Aircraft is operated according to Instrument procedures and regulation independent of any weather conditions. Aircraft can operate IFR in clear skies or within clouds.

IMC- Instrument Meteorological Conditions: Aircraft operated within conditions(clouds and or restricted visibility) that prevent pilot from seeing obstacles or other aircraft. Visibility amount that defines IMC is set by regulation based on aircraft category(rotorcraft, airplane) and airspace type and altitude. Bad weather.
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VFR- Visual Flight Rules: Aircraft operated according to VFR regulations and procedures. Must operate in VMC conditions.

VMC- Visual Meteorological Conditions: Aircraft operated within conditions(clouds clearance and or visibility) that allow the pilot to see obstacles or other aircraft. Visibility amount set by regulation based on aircraft category(rotorcraft, airplane) and airspace type and altitude. Good weather.

pokey1694 wrote:

Do any helicopters have autopilot?

Some of the larger helicopters do, it's often required for them to be certified to fly IFR/IMC. 🙂