Helicopter Hoist and External Load Operations Checklist
This helicopter hoist and external load operations checklist ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 133 (Rotorcraft External-Load Operations), FAA Advisory Circular AC 133-1 (Certification and Operations - Rotorcraft External-Load Operators), and rescue hoist operational requirements for public safety and EMS operators. Designed for helicopter external load supervisors and Pilot in Command to verify safe and compliant hoist and sling load operations.
- Industry: Aviation
- Frequency: Per Event
- Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
- Role: External Load Supervisor / Pilot in Command
- Total Items: 30
- Compliance: FAA 14 CFR Part 133 Rotorcraft External-Load Operations, FAA AC 133-1 External Load Operator Certification, FAA Operations Specifications D262 External Load, OSHA 29 CFR 1926.550 Cranes and Helicopters, NAEMSP Helicopter Hoist Medical Operations Guidelines
Pre-Operation Setup
Pre-operation planning and setup.
- Load weight calculated and within helicopter sling load limit?
- Cargo hook inspected and function-tested?
- Rescue hoist cable, motor, and limit switches checked?
- All rigging equipment (slings, shackles, nets) inspected?
- Load secured and balanced per load plan?
Crew and Ground Briefing
Operations briefing for all participants.
- Roles and responsibilities briefed (PIC, crew chief, ground crew)?
- Hand signals and radio communications confirmed?
- Emergency and abort procedures briefed?
- Hazards (wires, obstacles, terrain) briefed?
- Static discharge procedure briefed for conductive loads?
Operations Area Survey
Operations area safety check.
- Power lines and obstacle locations confirmed?
- Wind speed/direction acceptable for operation?
- Bystanders outside rotor/load hazard zone?
- Ground crew wearing PPE (hard hats, hi-vis vests)?
- Landing/hover zone clear and adequate size?
Hoist/Rescue Operations
Rescue hoist specific requirements.
- Hoist operator current and qualified on aircraft hoist system?
- Survivor/patient briefed on rescue procedures?
- Rescue collar/jungle penetrator/litter pre-rigged correctly?
- Flight medic/paramedic on board for medical hoists?
- NVGs and supplemental lighting available for night hoist?
Post-Operation
Post-operation inspection and documentation.
- Cargo hook post-operation inspection completed?
- Hoist cable post-operation inspection for fraying or kinking?
- All rigging equipment inspected post-operation and retired if damaged?
- Load or patient successfully delivered?
- Aircraft exterior inspected for damage post-operation?
Records
External load operation documentation.
- External load operation log completed?
- Hook cycle count updated in maintenance records?
- Hoist cable cycles updated in maintenance records?
- Any incidents or near-misses documented?
- Hoist/External Load Notes
Related Aviation Checklists
- Airline Flight Operations Control and Dispatch Compliance Checklist
- Airport Lighting System Inspection and Maintenance Checklist
- Bird and Wildlife Strike Reporting and Prevention Checklist
- Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) and Sport Pilot Operations Checklist
Why Use This Helicopter Hoist and External Load Operations Checklist?
This helicopter hoist and external load operations checklist helps aviation teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for external load supervisor / pilot in command professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.
Ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 133 Rotorcraft External-Load Operations, FAA AC 133-1 External Load Operator Certification, FAA Operations Specifications D262 External Load, OSHA 29 CFR 1926.550 Cranes and Helicopters, NAEMSP Helicopter Hoist Medical Operations Guidelines. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Helicopter Hoist and External Load Operations Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Pre-Operation Setup, Crew and Ground Briefing, Operations Area Survey, Hoist/Rescue Operations, Post-Operation, Records. It is designed for aviation operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Who should use this Helicopter Hoist and External Load Operations Checklist?
This checklist is designed for External Load Supervisor / Pilot in Command professionals in the aviation industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.