Weight
When determining if a helicopter is within the weight limits,
consider the weight of the basic helicopter, crew, passengers,
cargo, and fuel. Although the effective weight (load factor)
varies during maneuvering flight, this chapter primarily
considers the weight of the loaded helicopter while at rest.
It is critical to understand that the maximum allowable weight
may change during the flight. When operations include OGE
hovers and confined areas, planning must be done to ensure
that the helicopter is capable of lifting the weight during all
phases of flight. The weight may be acceptable during the
early morning hours, but as the density altitude increases
during the day, the maximum allowable weight may have
to be reduced to keep the helicopter within its capability.
The following terms are used when computing a helicopter’s