Welcome to safety around helicopters
Helicopters are incredible machines that let us reach places few other aircraft can — but working around them requires extra care and awareness. Your safety, and the safety of those around you, is always our number one priority.
This training site has been designed to give passengers, clients, and ground crew the confidence to feel comfortable in and around helicopters. You don’t need to be a pilot to play a part in safety — by knowing the right steps and understanding the environment, you’ll help ensure every flight runs smoothly and without risk.
What You’ll Learn
Over the course of this training, you’ll be guided through:
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Approaching and exiting the helicopter safely — including where to walk, where not to, and how to carry gear.
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Pre-flight expectations — what will happen before your flight, how to secure loose items, and the importance of following crew instructions.
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On-board safety — seat belts, headsets, doors, and how to stay comfortable and secure during your flight.
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Emergency procedures — what to do in the unlikely event of an emergency, so you’re prepared and confident.
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Ground crew responsibilities — for those supporting flights, covering marshalling, loading, and safety zones.
Why It Matters
Every safe flight is a team effort. Pilots and crew are trained to the highest standards, but safety also depends on the awareness and actions of passengers and ground staff. Even small details — like holding onto your hat, securing your phone, or approaching only when signalled — can prevent accidents and protect everyone on board.
A Simple, Practical Approach
We’ve kept this training clear, easy to follow, and based on real-world scenarios. Each section builds your knowledge step by step, with short explanations, visuals, and quizzes to make sure it sticks. By the end, you’ll not only understand the key safety rules, but you’ll also feel more confident and relaxed whenever you’re around a helicopter.
Completing this training means you’re doing your part to keep our operations safe, efficient, and stress-free. Together, we can make every flight a safe flight.
Take a moment to study the above poster that outlines hazards and the safest way to be in and around our helicopters.
You can download a PDF here: CAA NZ – Safety around helicopters