Helicopter Safety from Ron Keith:

I'd like to discuss a few safety related items concerning model flight operation and cooperation at our field. By nature, fixed wing and helicopters create a very odd mix of performance envelopes and it takes a measure of understanding and common courtesy for the two disciplines to co-exist at the same airfield. Here are a few simple guidelines for all helicopter pilots flying at DeLeo Field.

A thorough "body-off" preflight inspection should be performed prior to the first flight of the day at a minimum.

Beginners (able to hover or close in forward flight) and all test flights should fly from the designated helicopter area.

If you are comfortable with forward flight, then fly in the standard aircraft pattern.

While in the pattern, as a courtesy to fixed wing friends, please give the right-of-way to all takeoff and landing aircraft (remember, they can't just stop and hover).

Clear the runway as quickly as possible after landing or land in the practice area to keep the runway open.

Never ground taxi (hover) in or out of the pit area; carry your helicopter to and from the takeoff and landing area; as a rule, I generally walk mine out to the double-yellow or close to it.

Remember, most pilots, including myself, are a little intimidated by helicopters because the potential for danger is obvious. The answer to Rodney King's timeless question "Can't we all just get along?" should be a simple yes, if we follow these basic guidelines and try to exhibit a measure of common courtesy while flying with our fixed wing friends.