Night Landing Zones

The preferred method of marking a landing zone uses four emergency vehicles with their low beam headlights aimed toward the intended landing area. Chemical light sticks may be used, if available, in areas that are inaccessible to vehicles. If these are used, care should be taken to assure they are adequately secured.

At night, spotlights, flood lights and hand lights used to define the landing zone are not to be pointed at the helicopter. However, they are helpful when pointed toward utility poles, trees or other possible hazards to the landing aircraft. White lights such as spotlights, flashbulbs and hi-beam headlights ruin the pilot’s night vision and temporarily blind him. Red lights, however, are very helpful in finding accident locations and do not affect the pilot’s night vision.

An alternative method for the marking the landing zone uses two vehicles. Have the vehicles direct their headlight beams into the wind, crossing at the center of the landing zone. (If fire/rescue personnel are available, the reflective stripes on their bunker gear will assist the pilot greatly.)

Similar to Day landing zone operations, insure radio contact is accomplished between ground and air, if possible.