Landing in a confined area- UK- Henley Area, in a Robinson R-44 Helicopter.
The confined area has one route of access, and the approach is made downwind on this occasion. It is important to ensure that the rate of descent does not build greater than 500 feet per minute during the approach to avoid vortex ring conditions.
A power check had been performed before landing to ensure suitable performance was available for a vertical descent and take off .
This is achieved by flying at 55kts, comparing the power used flying straight and level, - in this instance - 18 inches Manifold air pressure (which varies on a daily basis- depending on weight of the Helicopter, outside air pressure + temperature, and fuel / passenger load) , and deducting from the maximum power available - using the graph above the pilots head. On this day, the may power was 24.5 inches MAP- hence a power margin of 6.5 inches, allowing a vertical takeoff/ landing (Hover Outside Ground Effect).
Thanks to Hugh Barklem for permission to use the landing site - and to share this video - ‘legend’
