Surviving a Crashing Helicopter: A Comprehensive Guide

Jumping out of a crashing helicopter is one of the most dangerous and critical situations a person can face. Understanding the proper procedures and techniques can significantly improve your chances of survival. This guide aims to provide essential steps and precautions to consider in the event of a helicopter emergency.

Assess the Situation

Altitude and Speed: Assess the altitude and speed of the helicopter. If the altitude is low and the speed is slow, you may have a better chance of surviving. However, do ensure that you do not jump too soon as this might compromise your safety.

Helicopter Stability: Evaluate the stability of the helicopter. If it is spinning or in a tailspin, remaining inside might be safer until the last possible moment. If you are sure that you can safely exit, follow the steps outlined below.

Prepare for the Jump

Unbuckle Your Seatbelt: Ensure that the seatbelt is unfastened as soon as it is safe to do so. This reduces the risk of being trapped in the wreckage.

Position Yourself: Move to the door or designated exit. If possible, wait for the helicopter to level out before making the jump. This reduces the risk of hitting the rotor blades or hard surfaces.

Check for Obstacles: Before making the jump, check the area below for any potential obstacles such as trees, buildings, or water. This ensures you have a clear path to safety.

Jumping Technique

Timing: Jump when the helicopter is close to the ground, ideally below 100 feet, to minimize the fall distance. This reduces the impact and allows you to make better use of experienced survival techniques.

Body Position: Lean forward slightly as you jump to avoid hitting the helicopter or its rotor blades. This reduces the risk of injury and helps you maintain a straight posture for better landing.

Roll on Landing: Upon landing, try to land on your side or roll upon impact to disperse the force and reduce injury. This technique is crucial in minimizing the risk of broken bones or severe trauma.

After the Jump

Move Away Quickly: Once you have exited the helicopter, move away from it to avoid potential explosions or falling debris. Keep a clear head and stay calm to make better decisions in this critical situation.

Assess Injuries: Check for any injuries and seek medical help if necessary. Bystanders or emergency services can offer valuable assistance in this phase.

Training and Preparedness

Survival Courses: Consider enrolling in survival courses that focus on emergency procedures specific to aviation. These courses can provide invaluable skills and knowledge for surviving such an emergency.

Stay Calm: Keeping a clear head under pressure can significantly improve your ability to make the right decisions in a crisis. Practice remaining calm in dangerous situations to enhance your overall survival chances.

Note: These guidelines are not foolproof and should not be taken as definitive survival tactics. In any emergency, it is crucial to follow the instructions of trained personnel and emergency services.