AMPHIBIOUS DEPARTURE PROCEDURES
Helicopters, fixed wing, and tiltrotor aircraft have different departure procedures. When
controllers are working the departure control position on an amphibious ship, controllers
are tasked with ensuring that all aircraft follow their established departure routes.
Helicopter Departure Procedures
Departure controller work with Case I, II, and III helicopter departures. During
departures, controllers must not require that a pilot change radio frequencies or IFF
codes until the helicopter attains at least a 300-foot cruise configuration.
Helicopter Departure Procedures
Table 11-23 lists the helicopter departure procedures used in each case of departure.
Weather
Departure Procedure
Criteria
Case I
Helicopter pilots clear the control zone at or below 300 feet or as
directed by PriFly.
Case II
Helicopters depart via Case I departure procedures and maintain
flight integrity below the clouds. Weather conditions permitting,
departure on assigned mission shall also comply with Case I
procedure. If helicopter pilots are unable to maintain VMC, they shall
proceed according to Case III departures.
Case III
Helicopters launch at not less than 1-minute intervals, climb straight
ahead to 500 feet, and intercept the 3-mile arc. They arc at 3 miles to
intercept assigned departure radials. Upon reaching their assigned
departure radials, helicopters turn outbound and commence climb to
assigned altitude. The minimum standard separation of departure
radials is 20 degrees.
Table 11-23 -- Helicopter departure procedures
Additional Helicopter Case III Departure Procedures
Some other helicopter specific Case III departure procedures include:
Case III departures apply whenever weather conditions at the ship are below
Case II minimums, when there is no visible horizon, or when directed by the
commanding officer or OTC.
11-62