The aircraft must not be approached at any time without permission from the pilot (usually sitting on the right hand side of the cockpit). The rotor disc must not be approached or entered at any time without the express permission of the pilot.
All approaches must be made in the pilot’s field of vision and it must be remembered that entry points vary between aircraft.
Entry at 10 and 2 o’clock positions (as shown in the image to the right) is used for most helicopters, but some aircraft will have entry points at 3 and 9 o’clock positions.
Before approaching the helicopter, you need to seek approval to enter under the rotor disc. There are procedures that you have to follow when approaching during the day and at night.
During the day
At night
Sloping ground
Also, always approach the helicopter on the downhill side of any slope. Rotor clearance is significantly affected by sloping ground:
Learning Bite
Never go beyond the side doors of a helicopter and always avoid the rear.