A remote-controlled
camera helicopter combines the use of aeronautics,
electronics and wireless transmission technologies
through the use of a remote-controlled unit. As with
a normal helicopter, the flying accuracy may be adversely
affected by changing natural conditions such as wind,
air density, temperature, gross weight, humidity, and
time of day. Man-made conditions such as a weight load,
wind (fans), explosives disturbing airflow around the
tail rotor, and center of gravity can also affect the
helicopter's ability to fly.
- The Production Company shall notify the Film Permit
Office and/or appropriate governmental agency that
a remote-controlled helicopter is being used in the
production and any special provisions or precautions
required shall be followed.
- The Pilot/Remote Control Operator in Command shall
notify the FAA if the helicopter intends to fly near
or within restricted and/or controlled air space.
- The Pilot/Remote Control Operator in Command shall
check the location to determine if there are any
potential radio frequencies or electrical transmission
that could interfere with or affect the safe operation
of the helicopter.
- The cast and crew shall be notified that any electrical
or transmission equipment may also interfere with
the safe operation of the helicopter. Crew members
with electrical or transmission equipment should
contact the Pilot/Remote Control Operator in Command
to see if it may affect the operation of the helicopter's
control devices.
- If the remote controlled helicopter is to be used
indoors, extreme caution shall be taken. Indoor conditions
(e.g., increased heat resulting in reduced air density)
could adversely affect flying characteristics. Additionally,
interior sets, walls, ceiling beams, lighting equipment,
HVAC equipment etc., will be a hazard.
- The Pilot/Remote Control Operator in Command is
at all times the final authority over the helicopter
and shall be in command over all flight operations
and/or related activities.
- The Pilot/Remote Control Operator in Command shall
have the final authority to abort any flight operation
in the interest of safety. Abort signals shall be
specified ahead of time.
- At the start of each day’s filming the Pilot/Remote
Control Operator in Command and the designated production
representative will conduct a briefing and/or SAFETY
MEETING for the production staff, and those persons
necessary for filming, including emergency, safety
and security personnel.
NOTE: Subsequent briefings and/or SAFETY MEETINGS
may be required as necessary for other intended sequences,
changes and/or additional scenes.
Both meetings shall include the following:
a) Possible risk to personnel involved.
b) Safeguards to personnel and equipment.
c) Communications and Emergency procedures, including
landing zones.
d) Location of boundaries and intended flight paths.
e) The use of explosives or squibs and interaction
of stunt personnel. The meeting shall include a discussion
regarding electronic devices and/or other equipment
the crew may have that could interfere with the control
of the remote controlled helicopter.
f) Discuss all obstacles and/or equipment types and
locations that may present a hazard.
- In regard to communications, the Pilot/Remote Control
Operator in Command will coordinate with the designated
production representative and implement a plan for
communications between the participants.
- A preplanned stunt and/or special effect sequence
will not be changed in any way without the authorization
of the Pilot/Remote Control Operator. Once the helicopter
is airborne, no changes will be made.
- If there is a question as to safety of any aerial
filming sequence involving low camera shots near
cast or crew members an additional briefing and/or
Safety Meeting shall be held between the Pilot/Remote
Control Operator in Command and concerned persons.
- The Pilot/Remote Control Operator in Command shall
be notified by the appropriate department head, if
any equipment is added and/or altered that may present
a potential hazard for the aircraft.
- Unless directed by the Pilot/Remote Control Operator
in Command, no person shall approach the helicopter
without permission, whether running or not.
- During operation, never walk near the main or tail
sections of the rotor blades. All equipment (e.g.,
cameras, lights, sound booms etc.) shall be placed
a safe distance away from the operating helicopter,
whether running or not.
- The landing area should be cleared of debris. Never,
under any circumstance, throw anything such as grip
tape, clothing, paper, etc. around the helicopter,
whether running or not. Loose clothing, trash, or
anything that may hinder the operation of the helicopter,
shall be checked.
- Protect your eyes, as well as your equipment, especially
when the helicopter is landing or taking off.
- Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
shall be utilized.
- The Production Company must notify all cast and
crew members this equipment is being used. Additionally,
the front of the call sheet should contain a statement
to the effect that:
- "A remote-controlled helicopter is being used
to carry a camera and will be flown in close proximity
to crew and equipment. Anyone objecting will notify
the production manager or 1st AD prior to any filming."
A COPY OF THIS BULLETIN MUST BE ATTACHED
TO THE CALL SHEET ON DAYS THAT THE REMOTE CONTROLLED
HELICOPTER IS BEING UTILIZED
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