24/10/2025
What should you consider when setting up a Landing Zone?
⬜The landing zone should be a minimum of 100’X100', day or night. The landing location should be free of obstacles, hazards, and debris. The site should be firm, and avoid slopes greater than five degrees, if possible. Soft sand or dirt landing sites should be avoided, but can be wet down as a last resort.
🔎It can be difficult for pilots to see small obstructions from the air. A survey of the site should include, overhead power, telephone, or other obstructions; antennas, buildings, or tall trees, with an attempt to remove or limit any of these obstructions from the landing location. If any of the objects are present at the landing location, it will be important to notify the flight crew of their presence. They may want you to find a different location.
🚨Mark the landing zone. To do this, use weighted cones or position emergency vehicles at the corner of the landing zone with headlights facing inward to form an X.
If strong winds exist, it will be helpful to inform the flight crew of the wind direction and speed.
Ensure that all nonessential personnel, bystanders, and vehicles are at least 200ft from the landing zone.
⛑️Personnel operating near the landing zone should be prepared for high wind and noise. Responders should have all PPE in place during take-off and landings, to include helmets with chin straps, ear protection, and face shields or other eye protection.
