How should you separate a departing helicopter from an arriving helicopter?

The most effective method for separating a departing helicopter from an arriving helicopter is to ensure that the departure does not take off until the arrival has landed and exited the landing area. This approach guarantees that there is no overlap in their flight paths during a critical phase of operation, minimizing the risk of collision or interference between the two helicopters.

In busy airspace, particularly in environments with limited maneuverability such as helipads or similar areas, coordination is crucial. Allowing the departing helicopter to take off only after the arriving helicopter has safely landed and cleared the area eliminates any potential for conflict. Furthermore, this method adheres to standard aviation safety protocols that prioritize the safe management of air traffic and ground operations.

The other strategies may lack the necessary safety margin. For example, ensuring the departure takes off before the arrival lands does not account for potential delays or changes in the arrival's landing trajectory. Maintaining visual contact is important, but it does not replace the need for proper procedural separation, which is critical for operational safety. Issuing a warning to the departing helicopter might alert it to a nearby arrival, but it does not establish a clear separation protocol and could create confusion rather than ensuring safety. Thus, the selected method is the most reliable for ensuring safe operations between arriving