Describe the three-point contact rule when boarding or exiting a UH-60 helicopter.

Describe the three-point contact rule when boarding or exiting a UH-60 helicopter.

• A. Maintain three points of contact at all times (two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand).
• B. Hold onto the door frame only.
• C. Three-point contact only applies on the ground.
• D. Use only one hand for support.

Answer: (A)

Three points of contact must be maintained at all times when boarding or exiting a UH-60 helicopter, meaning you keep either two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand in contact with the airframe at every moment. This rule provides stability on the narrow steps and potential slick surfaces, and it helps you stay balanced against movement from wind, rotor wash, or slight helicopter shifts. By keeping three points secured, you’re less likely to slip or lose your grip if one point slips, and you can move purposefully—hands stay on secure handholds while feet safely plant on the steps or ground. It’s especially important when carrying gear, since you still need that fixed contact to control your body. Holding onto just the door frame gives only one or two contact points, which isn’t enough to maintain steady balance. The rule isn’t limited to being used only on the ground—the same approach applies any time you’re mounting or dismounting the aircraft. Using only one hand also reduces stability and increases the risk of a fall, even with careful steps.

Three points of contact must be maintained at all times when boarding or exiting a UH-60 helicopter, meaning you keep either two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand in contact with the airframe at every moment. This rule provides stability on the narrow steps and potential slick surfaces, and it helps you stay balanced against movement from wind, rotor wash, or slight helicopter shifts. By keeping three points secured, you’re less likely to slip or lose your grip if one point slips, and you can move purposefully—hands stay on secure handholds while feet safely plant on the steps or ground. It’s especially important when carrying gear, since you still need that fixed contact to control your body.

Holding onto just the door frame gives only one or two contact points, which isn’t enough to maintain steady balance. The rule isn’t limited to being used only on the ground—the same approach applies any time you’re mounting or dismounting the aircraft. Using only one hand also reduces stability and increases the risk of a fall, even with careful steps.