SPA.HOFO.120 Selection of aerodromes and operating sites

SI No. 1290/2024

Text in magenta in force from 30 October 2025

1. Onshore destination alternate aerodrome. Notwithstanding CAT.OP.MPA.181, NCC.OP.152, and SPO.OP.151, the pilot-in command/commander does not need to specify a destination alternate aerodrome in the operational flight plan when conducting flights from an offshore location to a land aerodrome if either:

   1. the destination aerodrome is defined as a coastal aerodrome, or

   2. the following criteria are met:

      1. the destination aerodrome has a published instrument approach;

      2. the flight time is less than 3 hours; and

      3. the published weather forecast valid from 1 hour prior, and 1 hour subsequent to the expected landing time specifies that:

         1. the cloud base is at least 700 feet above the minima associated with the instrument approach, or 1000 feet above the destination aerodrome, whichever is the higher; and

         2. visibility is at least 2500 meters.

2. Offshore destination alternate helideck . The operator may select an offshore destination alternate helideck when all of the following criteria are met:

   1. An offshore destination alternate helideck shall be used only after the point of no return (PNR) and when an onshore destination alternative aerodrome is not geographically available. Prior to the PNR, an onshore destination alternate aerodrome shall be used.

   2. One engine inoperative (OEI) landing capability shall be attainable at the offshore destination alternate helideck.

   3. To the extent possible, helideck availability shall be guaranteed prior to PNR. The dimensions, configuration and obstacle clearance of individual helidecks or other sites shall be suitable for its use as an alternate helideck by each helicopter type intended to be used.

   4. Weather minima shall be established taking into account the accuracy and reliability of meteorological information.

   5. The MEL shall contain specific provisions for this type of operation.

   6. An offshore destination alternate helideck shall only be selected if the operator has established a procedure in the operations manual.

Point (a) will be replaced by the following text on 30 October 2025:

1. Onshore destination alternate aerodrome. Notwithstanding CAT.OP.MPA.192, NCC.OP.152, and SPO.OP.151, the pilot-in command/commander does not need to specify a destination alternate aerodrome in the operational flight plan when conducting flights from an offshore location to a land destination aerodrome provided that sufficient operational contingency is in place to secure a safe return from offshore.

   Editorial note:point (a) sub-paragraphs (1) and (2) will be deleted.