Part 4: Helicopter-Specific Radiotelephony

Departure from non-runway positions follows similar logic. When you depart from a designated landing area (not the main runway), you need to inform ATC.

Helicopter Departure from Off-Runway Area

Linz Tower · OE-XYZ

FREQUENCY: 118.3 MHz

PILOT: Linz Tower, OE-XYZ, helicopter at the north grass landing area, REQUEST takeoff air taxi to the aerodrome landing area.

ATC OE-XYZ, air taxi APPROVED, proceed to the main landing area, REPORT ready for departure from the aerodrome.

PILOT: Air taxi to the main landing area, OE-XYZ. [5 minutes later]

PILOT: Linz Tower, OE-XYZ, helicopter, at the main landing area, ready for departure.

ATC: OE-XYZ, wind 180, 8 knots, CLEARED for takeoff.

PILOT: CLEARED for takeoff, OE-XYZ.

Notice the two-step process: first, air taxi from the remote location to the main aerodrome, then request a normal takeoff clearance once you're in position. This gives ATC visibility of your movements and ensures other traffic is aware.