Must you go to the 'Hover' visual signal before issuing the 'Hookup Complete' signal?

Must you go to the 'Hover' visual signal before issuing the 'Hookup Complete' signal?

• A. Not always
• B. Yes
• C. Only if directed by the pilot
• D. No

Answer: (B)

Coordinating helicopter load hookups relies on visual signals performed in a safe, sequential order. Before signaling that the hookup is complete, the crew must bring the helicopter to a stable hover over the pickup point. This stability ensures the load rigging is clear, properly seated, and secured, and it minimizes load sway or contact with the ground as the lift begins. Once the aircraft is steady in hover and the rigging check is confirmed, the Hookup Complete signal communicates that the attachment has been verified and the lift can proceed. If Hookup Complete were given without first achieving a hover, any movement from wind, rotor wash, or pilot adjustments could cause the load to shift, snag, or detach, creating a hazardous situation. Therefore, the required practice is to perform the hover signal prior to signaling that hookup is complete.

Coordinating helicopter load hookups relies on visual signals performed in a safe, sequential order. Before signaling that the hookup is complete, the crew must bring the helicopter to a stable hover over the pickup point. This stability ensures the load rigging is clear, properly seated, and secured, and it minimizes load sway or contact with the ground as the lift begins. Once the aircraft is steady in hover and the rigging check is confirmed, the Hookup Complete signal communicates that the attachment has been verified and the lift can proceed. If Hookup Complete were given without first achieving a hover, any movement from wind, rotor wash, or pilot adjustments could cause the load to shift, snag, or detach, creating a hazardous situation. Therefore, the required practice is to perform the hover signal prior to signaling that hookup is complete.