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Operating a heliport, whether it's for commercial, medical, or private use, comes with important legal responsibilities. Compliance with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations is not just a matter of safety—it's a legal requirement that protects operators, pilots, and passengers alike. However, many heliport operators are unaware of the specific obligations they must meet to remain compliant. In this post, we explore the key areas of heliport compliance and how Lockie Airport Management can assist operators in meeting their legal obligations.
What Are Your Legal Obligations as a Heliport Operator?
All heliports (including non-certificated heliports such as Hospitals & Medical Centres) must meet certain safety and operational standards under CAA rules. This includes:
Health & Safety Protocols: Every heliport needs to maintain clear safety procedures to manage risks, including emergency response plans, hazard reporting, and equipment maintenance.
Hazard Management: Ensuring that the heliport’s infrastructure—such as windsocks, signage, and fencing—is in good condition is crucial to safe operations.
Accurate Documentation: Keeping up-to-date records of heliport operations, audits, and safety protocols is essential for meeting CAA's expectations.
These requirements can often feel overwhelming, especially for operators unfamiliar with aviation regulations.
Why Heliport Safety Should Be A Top Priority.
Safety is paramount when operating any type of aviation facility, and heliports are no exception. Whether you manage a hospital heliport for emergency services or a tourism heliport for scenic flights, the risks are real. From unpredictable weather conditions to frequent landings, heliports face unique challenges that can compromise safety if not managed properly.
Common Heliport Safety Hazards
Weather Hazards: Wind shear, turbulence, and changing weather conditions can all affect landing and takeoff safety.
Environmental hazards: Trees which may not have been an issue when the helipad was first designed may have grown or urban build up may encroach on the approach path which can cause challenges to arriving pilots and may not be reflected in their documentation.
Inadequate Equipment: Faulty windsocks, poor lighting, or damaged fencing can lead to accidents or incidents on-site.
Lack of Safety Protocols: Many heliports, especially private or remote ones, may not have comprehensive safety procedures in place, increasing the likelihood of operational risks.
Civil Aviation Authority's (CAA's) role
The CAA oversees the safety and security of New Zealand's civil aviation system. Its key responsibilities include regulating and certifying aviation operators, personnel, and aircraft; monitoring compliance (including conducting audits); investigating accidents; and managing aviation security through its operational arm, AvSec. The CAA also advises the government on aviation policy, represents New Zealand internationally, and promotes safety and sustainability within the sector.
In essence, the CAA ensures that New Zealand's civil aviation system operates safely, securely, and efficiently while meeting both national and international obligations.
The CAA is currently navigating a dynamic period, finding innovative ways to fulfil its objectives despite personnel and fiscal constraints. While limited staffing and budgetary challenges impact the frequency of audits, inspections, and certifications, the CAA continues to maintain safety and security standards by focusing on collaboration with industry stakeholders and adopting efficient practices.
However, it is essential for helipad operators, not to solely rely on the CAA to determine the safety of their operations. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, operators must actively demonstrate they are eliminating and minimising risks as far as is reasonably practicable. This shared responsibility underscores the importance of proactive safety management, complementing the CAA’s regulatory oversight to ensure a secure and robust aviation environment.
LAM’s Services for Heliport Compliance
At LAM, we specialise in helping heliport operators navigate the complexities of CAA regulations. Our services are tailored to the unique needs of each heliport, from remote private sites to busy commercial hubs. Here is how we can assist:
Limited time only - Free 30-Minute Consultation We offer a no-obligation, free consultation where we assess your heliport’s current compliance status. We’ll review your operational procedures, safety measures, and documentation to identify any areas where improvements can be made.
Health & Safety Audits LAM provides three levels of safety audits to suit your needs:
Basic Audit: A self-completed checklist reviewed by LAM, followed by a one-hour online consultation to provide feedback and recommendations.
Comprehensive On-Site Audit: A full inspection of your heliport, including safety equipment, signage, and operational areas, with a detailed report on necessary improvements.
Document Audit: A review of your compliance documentation to ensure all records are up-to-date and in line with CAA standards.
Ongoing Compliance Support Compliance doesn’t stop after an audit. We offer ongoing retainer services to provide regular support and advice, ensuring that your heliport remains compliant year-round.
Get in touch with us at:
Phone: +64 (0)21 66 44 14
Stay compliant, stay safe—choose LAM for your heliport’s compliance and safety needs.
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