NCO.SPEC.175 Performance and operating criteria — helicopters

(a) The pilot-in-command may operate an aircraft over congested areas provided that:

(1)  the helicopter is certified in category A or B; and

(2)  safety measures are established to prevent undue hazard to persons or property on the ground

(b) The pilot-in-command shall have:

(1)  established operational procedures to minimise the consequences of an engine failure; and

(2)  briefed all crew members and task specialists on board on the procedures to be carried out in the event of a forced landing.

(c) The pilot-in-command shall ensure that the mass at take-off, landing or hover shall not exceed the maximum mass specified for:

(1)  a hover out of ground effect (HOGE) with all engines operating at the appropriate power rating; or

(2)  if conditions prevail that a HOGE is not likely to be established, the helicopter mass shall not exceed the maximum mass specified for a hover in ground effect (HIGE) with all engines operating at the appropriate power rating, provided prevailing conditions allow a hover in ground effect at the maximum specified mass.