• All pilots must follow the heliport procedures as listed in the AIP VOL. 4 for NZMB
  • Communication Procedures for arriving and departing Mechanics Bay Heliport:
    • Arriving: Transmit a radio call 3 NM out from the Mechanics Bay heliport and again on finals stating the landing pad (Pad 4 unless otherwise directed by heliport staff). If the blades are turning on another helicopter at the heliport then communication must be established between the arriving and grounded helicopter prior to final approach commencing.
    • Departing: Start listening out on city traffic prior to engine start. Ensure correct frequency and volume selected. Do not start if a helicopter is on approach. Transmit a radio call on city traffic at least 10 seconds prior to lifting so that approaching traffic have an opportunity to respond. Remain on ground if any aircraft are on approach until they have landed. Note radio transmissions on the ground may be obscured by containers at the port. Transmit a radio call again once airborne.
    • Keep a thorough lookout. Note hospital traffic flying overhead and in close proximity to Mechanics Bay.

  • Noise Abatement

Unmanned Aircraft Operations at Mechanics Bay

Extensive Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operations are conducted from Mechanics Bay Heliport. Unmanned VTOL aircraft range in size from 2.5 meter to 5 meter wingspan.

Procedures

  • Helicopters will have priority for all take offs and landings at Mechanics Bay
  • All UAV flights will be flown at 400 feet and below
  • The UAV will remain within visual line of sight of the pilots. This area is identified in purple in the map below.
  • UAV will remain clear of the Helicopter Approach Area for all helicopter arrivals and departures at Mechanics Bay (shaded area on map).
  • The UAV holding position is at ‘South Harbour’. The UAV will hold at South Harbour by conducting a 150m radius turn around this point.
  • UAV departures and arrivals will be via ‘South Harbour’
  • UAV pilot will make standard position reports on City Traffic 120.4 Mhz
  • Landing position for the UAV at Mechanics Bay is on the eastern side of the apron away from the helipads.
  • UAV aircraft is equipped with ADSB In and Out

Helicopter Pilots

  • Continue normal operations in and out of Mechanics Bay
  • Communicate with UAV pilot to coordinate as you would with other aircraft
  • Check onboard TCAS and ADSB In to help verify UAV position