Aviation Major Hazard Standard - MIRMgate

WMC Environment, Health & Safety Management System 

Aviation 

Major Hazard Standard 

MHS-03 

DocsOpen Ref: 55221, 13/01/2004 

Uncontrolled copy – check web for latest revision 

Revision Reviewed Description of Changes Date Approved 

3 D Batchler Revised 13/01/2004 P Plavina 

2 A Barfield Revised 20/08/2001 P Plavina 

1 First Issue 12/07/2000 K Thomas 

© WMC Resources Ltd 

WMC has developed this document for internal use, specific to circumstances and conditions within its operations. It is 

intended to provide general information and its applicability to external parties may therefore be limited. WMC makes no 

representations as to the applicability of the information for use by any party other than WMC and should not be relied 

upon as such. WMC provides no representation or warranty as to safety or business outcomes arising from application 

of this document and its requirements by third parties.


MHS 03 - Aviation Standard documen 

Revision 3 issued 20 August 2001 

Purpose and Scope .................................2 

DETAILS ...................................................2 

1 General.................................................2 

1.1 Planning Aviation Operations ...........2 

1.2 Commercial Airlines..........................2 

1.3 Responsibilities.................................2 

2 Charter Services..................................3 

2.1 Contracting Charter Companies .......3 

2.2 Aviation Audits..................................3 

2.2.1 Requirement for Audits .......................3 

2.2.2 Audit Reports ......................................3 

2.3 Passenger Charter Services.............3 

2.3.1 Aircraft Selection.................................3 

2.3.2 Aircrew ................................................4 

2.3.3 Flight and Duty Limits..........................4 

2.3.4 Procedures For Passenger Operations4 

2.3.5 Weighing of Passengers, Baggage and 

Freight.................................................4 

2.3.6 Manifests.............................................4 

2.3.7 Passenger Safety Briefings.................4 

2.3.8 Restricted Articles ...............................5 

2.3.9 Dangerous Goods ...............................5 

2.3.10 Authority of Crew.........................5 

2.3.11 Non-WMC Passengers ...............5 

2.3.12 Non-WMC Charter Flights...........5 

2.3.13 Passenger Post-trip Reports .......5 

2.3.14 Flight Safety ................................5 

2.3.15 Smoking Restrictions ..................5 

2.3.16 Clothing.......................................6 

2.3.17 Freight-Only Flights.....................6 

2.3.18 Flights Over Water ......................6 

2.3.19 Survival Equipment .....................6 

2.3.20 Emergency Locater Transmitter..6 

3 Specialised Role Charter Services....6 

3.1 Specialised Roles .............................6 

3.2 Passengers.......................................6 

4 Aerodromes, Landing Areas and 

Helipads ...............................................6 

4.1 Design Requirements .......................6 

4.2 Helipads............................................6 

4.3 Inspections........................................6 

4.4 Closure of Landing Areas .................7 

4.5 Lighting .............................................7 

4.6 Communications ...............................7 

4.7 Meteorological Information................7 

4.8 Third Party Access............................7 

4.9 Insurance and Indemnity...................7 

5 Fuel Supply and Handling.................. 7 

5.1 Provision of Fuel Supply ...................7 

5.2 Design and Installation of Fuel 

Storage and Delivery Systems..........7 

5.3 Drum Fuel .........................................8 

5.4 Safety................................................8 

5.5 Environmental Protection..................8 

5.6 Fuel handling Procedures .................8 

5.7 Aircraft Refueling ..............................8 

5.8 Refueling Equipment.........................8 

5.9 Quality Testing of Fuel ......................8 

5.10 Records ............................................8 

6 Standard Procedures ......................... 8 

6.1 Standard Work Procedures...............8 

6.2 Emergency Response Plans.............9 

6.3 Reporting of Incidents .......................9 

Appendices............................................ 10 

A Definitions...............................................10 

B Related Documents ................................11 

C Revision Information...............................11 

D Planning Summary for Aviation 

Operations ...........................................14 

E Aircrew Experience Requirements ..........17 

F Sample Flight Manifest ............................19 

G Passenger Post Trip Report...................20 

H Standard Passenger Weights..................22 

I Specialised Role Aviation Services...........23 

** Uncontrolled copy. Use latest revision ** 

Standard Coordinator: B. Dandie EOF Coordinator: A. Barfield Group Manager - EHS: M. Webb 

SAF-MHS-03 Rev. 03 Docs 55221 Issued: 20/08/01 Page 1 of 29


MHS 03 - Aviation Standard documen Revision 3 

issued 20 August 2001 


PURPOSE AND SCOPE 

The purpose of this Standard is to eliminate fatalities 

and serious injuries associated with the use of aircraft 

and WMC controlled ground facilities supporting 

aircraft operations. 

The scope covers: 

• The use of commercial airlines 

• The use of charter aircraft for the transport of 

passengers and cargo 

• The use of charter aircraft in specialised aviation 

operations 

• Aviation ground support services which are 

controlled by WMC. 

The requirements of this Aviation Standard do not 

apply when an independent freight service provider 

handles freight for WMC unless operating from a 

WMC controlled facility. 

DETAILS 

1 General 

1.1 Planning Aviation Operations 

The risks to personnel and property associated with 

aviation operations can be minimised if sufficient 

time is allowed to fully define the requirements, to 

establish necessary infrastructure and to arrange 

appropriate contracts. Safe and economically viable 

alternatives to the use of air operations should be 

considered. Guidelines to assist in the planning 

process are provided in Appendix D. 

WMC personnel shall not conduct private flying on 

company business. Aircraft operations for company 

business shall be provided only by scheduled airlines 

or approved charter companies. 

1.2 Commercial Airlines 

Commercial Airlines should be used in preference to 

charter services when planning passenger 

movements. 

The selection of commercial airlines should use the 

following:- 

• Give preference to airlines using jet aircraft 

• Seek guidance on use of airlines who operate small 

or piston engined aircraft 

• Seek guidance on use of airlines in developing 

countries. 

If commercial airline services are not available, or if 

there are over-riding safety concerns regarding the 

available commercial airline service, charter 

companies may be used. 

Where concerns exist regarding the safety 

performance of commercial airlines in a particular 

area, guidance should be sought from the Site 

Aviation Coordinator (SAC), the contracted Aviation 

Consultant (AC) or from the WMC Aviation 

Coordinator. Lists of non-preferred commercial 

airlines are available on the WMC Intranet EOF 

Aviation page. 

1.3 Responsibilities 

Regional managers, General managers, senior 

corporate personnel and all personnel having a 

responsibility for activities directly involving 

aviation operations shall be thoroughly familiar with 

the contents of this Standard and ensure compliance 

with its requirements. 

This Standard shall be implemented and monitored 

by the line management directly responsible for the 

aviation operations. 

WMC Aviation Coordinator 

The WMC Aviation Coordinator shall be appointed 

from within the WMC Group Supply function. The 

responsibilities shall include but not be limited to: 

• Providing assurance to the Group Manager 

Supply that aviation activities within WMC 

complies with the requirements of this standard 

including air operations and ground facilities 

• Appointing and managing the Aviation 

Consultant 

• Providing technical support and guidance across 

WMC 

• Disseminate the relevant information to all areas 

of the company including maintaining the WMC 

Aviation Intranet site 

• Manage the contract function for charter 

operations 

• Schedule and arrange audits on aviation charter 

companies 

• Maintain liaison with all Site Aviation 

Coordinators (SAC’s) 

Site Aviation Coordinator (SAC) 

Site Aviation Coordinators shall be identified for 

each group or operation. The SAC has specific 

aviation related responsibilities for the operational 

area to which the SAC is assigned which include: 

• Verifying site compliance with this standard and 

providing that assurance to the General Manager 

• Point of reference for the standard on site 

• Dissemination of the standard information to 

new charter operators on site 






• Liaison with the WMC Aviation Coordinator in 

consideration of charter company aviation audit 

requirements 

• Schedule and arrange audits on site ground based 

facilities and services 

• Ensure aviation audit expenditure is included in 

the budget cycle 

• Liason with site management, the Aviation 

Coordinator and the contracted Aviation 

Consultant in audit closeout actions 

• Maintain communication with all service 

providers on site 

The SAC should liaise directly with the WMC 

Aviation Coordinator and the WMC appointed 

Aviation Consultants for guidance and specialised 

technical advice. 

2 Charter Services 

2.1 Contracting Charter Companies 

Charter companies shall not be used without either: 

• A term charter contract, or 

• A miscellaneous charter services contract. 

These shall be awarded only to companies which 

have been approved by WMC following an aviation 

audit. 

All aviation contracts shall be prepared and 

administered by the WMC Group Supply Aviation 

Coordinator. 

Lists of preferred charter companies are available on 

the WMC Intranet EOF Aviation page. 

2.2 Aviation Audits 

2.2.1 Requirement for Audits 

Audits of charter companies shall be conducted: 

• As part of the tendering process for long term 

contracts 

• Prior to a charter company being approved for use 

by WMC 

• Annually, for charter companies engaged under a 

Miscellaneous Charter Services Contract 

• At intervals of no more than 18 months for charter 

companies engaged under long term contracts. 

Audits may also be conducted if there are any 

grounds for believing that a charter company’s 

operating, maintenance or management standards 

may have changed since the previous audit. 

The WMC Aviation Coordinator shall schedule and 

arrange audits on currently contracted charter 

companies. All audit and associated costs are the 

responsibility of the site/department contract 

representative. 

Any charter company that refuses to undergo an audit 

shall not be used by WMC. 

Aviation audits shall be conducted by the WMC 

appointed AC. The WMC Aviation Coordinator shall 

authorise the appointment of the all AC. 

2.2.2 Audit Reports 

The AC shall provide an audit report to the WMC 

Aviation Coordinator and a copy will then be 

forwarded to the SAC and the site/department 

contract representative . 

The audit reports shall contain conditions of approval 

and should contain recommendations that assist the 

charter company in obtaining compliance. 

The WMC Aviation Coordinator shall oversee and 

the AC shall coordinate such actions as may be 

required to ensure the recommendations in the audit 

report are completed satisfactorily 

Where an audit identifies that a charter company 

does not conform to WMC’s requirements, guidance 

should be sought from the WMC Aviation 

Coordinator before the charter company is advised of 

the audit results. 

2.3 Passenger Charter Services 

2.3.1 Aircraft Selection 

The following order of preference shall be used when 

selecting aircraft (aeroplane and helicopters) for 

charter flight transportation of passengers: 

• Multi engine, turbine powered 

• Multi engine, piston powered (except helicopters) 

• Single engine, turbine powered 

• Single engine, piston powered (except helicopters) 

Helicopters used for passenger transport shall be 

turbine powered. 

A specific risk assessment is required for the use of 

single engine aircraft for passenger transport. The 

AC shall be included in the risk assessment. The 

following shall be included in the assessment: 

• Flight procedures to be used 

• Flights are conducted with scheduled position 

reports, logged with an approved ground facility 

• Search and Rescue (SAR) capability is established 

in the area of operations 

• Emergency response procedures are in place 






For helicopter operations over water, twin engine 

helicopters are preferred and shall be used when 

helicopter operations are conducted over water at a 

radius of more than 25 nautical miles from the 

nearest suitable landing area. 

Aircraft shall be selected from the list of aircraft 

approved following an aviation audit. The charter 

company shall not be permitted to use cross hired 

aircraft without the prior written approval of WMC. 

2.3.2 Aircrew 

All contracts with charter companies shall require 

conformance with WMC’s minimum aircrew 

experience and training requirements as detailed in 

Appendix E unless a lesser experience level has been 

approved in writing by WMC’s Aviation 

Consultants. 

Aircraft shall be crewed by two pilots when: 

• Flights operate under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) 

• The aircraft is certified with passenger capacity 

greater than 8 

• Night flying operations are carried out 

• An audit has determined that the operations should 

be carried out by more than one pilot. 

The charter company shall not be permitted to 

provide freelance aircrew without the prior written 

approval of WMC. 

2.3.3 Flight and Duty Limits 

Unless more stringent limits are imposed by 

regulatory authorities or as required for specialised 

role operations, flight and duty times for aircrew 

shall not be more than those outlined below. 

Flight time shall be limited to the following maxima: 

• 34 hours in any consecutive 7 day period 

• 120 hours in any consecutive 30 day period 

• 1,200 hours in any consecutive 365 day period. 

A duty period will not normally exceed 12 hours and 

will be followed by a rest period which shall be at 

least twice the number of hours flown during the 

preceding tour of duty and shall not be in any case 

less than 8 hours. 

Any proposal for pilots to exceed these flight and 

duty times shall be referred to the WMC Aviation 

Coordinator for review on a case by case basis as part 

of the exemption procedure. 

2.3.4 Procedures For Passenger Operations 

Any WMC ground facility handling passenger flights 

shall develop procedures for the administration and 

handling of passengers, baggage and freight 

associated with these flights. 

The procedures shall include controls to prevent 

injury to personnel while aircraft propellers or rotor 

blades are operating. Passengers shall not be allowed 

near aircraft unless accompanied by the aircrew or an 

authorised member of the facility’s ground staff. 

2.3.5 Weighing of Passengers, Baggage and 

Freight 

On charter aircraft of 12 or less seats, all passengers, 

baggage and freight shall be weighed. 

On charter aircraft having greater than 12 seats, 

Standard Passenger Weights may be used. All 

checked in baggage and freight shall be weighed. A 

table of recommended Standard Passenger Weights is 

provided in Appendix H. 

Appropriate weighing scales shall be provided, 

wherever practicable. Where weighing facilities are 

not available, a process shall be in place to enable the 

pilot to estimate the payload 

After passenger baggage and freight has been 

checked-in, it shall remain under the control of 

baggage handling staff until it is loaded on the 

aircraft. 

2.3.6 Manifests 

The names of the passengers and the weights of the 

baggage, freight and passengers (where weighed) 

shall be recorded on the flight manifest and provided 

to the pilot before departure. A copy of the manifest 

shall be retained at the point of departure or the 

manifest details communicated by radio to the WMC 

base having control of the flight. 

A sample passenger manifest is provided in 

Appendix F. 

2.3.7 Passenger Safety Briefings 

Passengers shall be briefed by a crew member before 

each flight. The briefing shall include but not be 

limited to: 

• Restricted items 

• Safe access to and egress from the aircraft 

• No smoking requirements 

• Use of seat belts and brace positions 

• Location and use of emergency equipment 

including Emergency Locater Transmitter and First 

Aid Kit 

• Emergency procedures and emergency exits 

• Restricted activities during the flight 

• Non use of mobile phones and other electronic 

equipment 

• Flight details. 






Passenger emergency briefing cards shall be 

provided for each passenger seat to supplement the 

ground briefing. Both shall be in a language 

understood by the passengers. The briefing cards 

shall be specific to the type and cabin configuration 

of aircraft used. 

2.3.8 Restricted Articles 

Passengers on charter flights shall be made aware 

through briefings, posters or placards that there are 

articles which they are not allowed to carry on board 

the aircraft. These include the items listed below: 

• Matches 

• Firearms 

• Flammable liquids 

• Drugs (illegal or non-prescription) 

• Explosives 

• Magnetic materials 

• Radioactive materials 

Such items shall be transported on WMC charter 

flights only in accordance with the requirements of 

Section 5.9 Dangerous Goods. 

2.3.9 Dangerous Goods 

Items or materials classified as Dangerous Goods 

(DG) shall not be transported by air except in 

accordance with: 

• International Air Transport Association (IATA) 

Regulations, or 

• Specific procedures developed and agreed between 

WMC and the aircraft operator which incorporate 

controls on the hazards associated with air 

transport of DG. 

IATA regulations prohibit the carriage of a range of 

DG by air except under certain specific conditions. In 

addition to those specifically mentioned in Section 

2.4.3, the term Dangerous Goods includes gases 

(compressed, liquefied, refrigerated), flammable 

solids (e.g. liable to spontaneous combustion or 

reactive on contact with water), oxidising materials, 

poisonous or infectious substances, corrosives and a 

range of other hazardous materials (e.g. mercury). 

The aircraft operator can advise on the acceptability 

of the goods and specific packaging instructions. If 

any doubt exists as to the nature of the goods 

proposed to be transported by air, or to the correct 

packaging or handling procedures, the goods shall 

not be transported by air. 

Personnel involved in arranging the transport of DG 

by air shall have undergone formal training in the 

recognition, the handling and consigning of 

dangerous goods. 

In all cases, the proposed transport by air of DG shall 

be declared to the airline or charter company 

involved. 

Charter companies transporting DG shall conform to 

the IATA requirements for air transport of DG. 

2.3.10 Authority of Crew 

In matters concerning the operational safety of the 

aircraft, conduct of the flight, loading and refueling 

of the aircraft and control of embarked passengers, 

the pilot has full authority. For reasons of flight 

safety, the pilot’s decisions should not be debated 

during flight but should be referred to the WMC 

SAC assigned to the contract as soon as possible 

after the event. 

2.3.11 Non-WMC Passengers 

The transport in WMC chartered aircraft of personnel 

not on company business is discouraged and should 

only be considered when there is a clear WMC 

business interest involved. Carrying non-WMC 

passengers in a WMC chartered flight creates a 

liability in the event of an accident. Advice may be 

obtained from WMC’s Risk Management Group. 

2.3.12 Non-WMC Charter Flights 

Except in emergencies, WMC personnel should not 

accept lifts in non-WMC chartered flights for 

convenience unless: 

• Appropriate agreements have been arranged in 

advance with the provider of the charter flights, 

and 

• Wherever practicable, the charter service conforms 

with the requirements of this Standard. 

Guidance should be obtained from the WMC 

Aviation Coordinator in such cases. 

2.3.13 Passenger Post-trip Reports 

Passengers are encouraged to provide comments on 

any charter flights they undertake to the WMC SAC 

or Aviation Coordinator. The report form provided in 

Appendix G may be used for this purpose. 

2.3.14 Flight Safety 

2.3.15 Smoking Restrictions 

No smoking is permitted: 

• on the aircraft chartered by WMC 

• in the designated no smoking area or 

• within a minimum of 15 metersof the aircraft 

and fueling facilities 






2.3.16 Clothing 

Personnel on WMC charter flights shall wear 

clothing which offers protection against possible 

hazards and which is appropriate for the local 

conditions. 

2.3.17 Freight-Only Flights 

WMC personnel shall not be passengers on WMC 

designated “freight only” charter flights. 

2.3.18 Flights Over Water 

Aeroplane’s operating over water beyond gliding 

distance from land and helicopters operating over 

water beyond auto-rotational distance from land, 

shall: 

• Be equipped with life jackets for all personnel on 

board the aircraft 

• Carry life rafts with combined capacity sufficient 

to accommodate the maximum certified number of 

passengers and crew that can be carried by the 

aircraft: 

• In the case of helicopters, be fitted with approved 

flotation equipment 

All passengers and crew shall wear approved 

constant wear, inflatable life jackets whenever the 

helicopter or single engine aeroplane is operating 

over water. 

2.3.19 Survival Equipment 

When aircraft operations are conducted in remote 

areas, a survival pack shall be carried in the aircraft 

containing emergency ration packs, water and 

survival equipment. These are to be appropriate for 

the operating environment and sufficient to sustain 

all persons on board for a minimum of 2 days. 

Survival packs should be in appropriately marked 

containers constructed of crash survivable materials. 

2.3.20 Emergency Locater Transmitter 

An Emergency Locater Transmitter (ELT) meeting 

the requirements of the Federal Aviation 

Administration (FAA) of the United States Technical 

Standard Order TSO C91a or higher is to be fitted to 

all charter aircraft. 

3 Specialised Role Charter Services 

3.1 Specialised Roles 

Specialised role operations include: 

• Airborne geophysical surveys 

• Aerial pipeline surveys 

• Helicopter external lifting operations 

• Aerial operations on pastoral stations. 

Charter services for specialised role operations shall 

comply with the additional or amended requirements 

specific to those operations as stated in Appendix M 

Airborne geophysical surveys shall be conducted in 

accordance with the International Airborne 

Geophysics Safety Association (IAGSA) Safety 

Policy Manual. Only members of IAGSA shall 

conduct these surveys. 

3.2 Passengers 

Passengers shall not be carried in aircraft conducting 

specialised services. This does not apply to personnel 

directly involved in the work activity. 

4 Aerodromes, Landing Areas and 

Helipads 

4.1 Design Requirements 

Aerodromes shall conform with the requirements of 

International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) 

Annex 14 (Aerodromes) as well as any local 

regulatory requirements. Landing areas and helipads 

shall conform to appropriate standards such as those 

specified in Australian Civil Aviation Advisory 

Publication 92. Where the requirements of this 

Standard are additional to the national regulatory 

requirements and are not in conflict, the requirements 

of this Standard shall also apply. The location, 

dimensions and condition of these facilities must be 

suited to the performance requirements of any 

aircraft it is intended should use the facilities. 

Where appropriate, adequate and practicable 

measures shall be taken to control animals and other 

wildlife from endangering the safety of aircraft using 

an aerodrome or other landing area. 

4.2 Helipads 

Designated helicopter take-off, landing areas and 

parking areas should be designed or chosen to take 

account of engine failure during take-off and 

landings. 

4.3 Inspections 

All aerodromes, landing areas and helipads shall be 

inspected to ensure they can be safely used by all 

WMC chartered aircraft required to use them. 






Each facility shall develop a schedule for inspection 

of runways and helipads. The frequency of 

inspections should be consistent with the nature of 

the surface, use, weather conditions and age and shall 

be conducted by persons trained and competent to 

make such inspections. 

Inspections may be held more frequently than listed 

in the schedule, if these are warranted by prevailing 

conditions (such as heavy rain or after flooding) 

which may adversely impact on the capability of the 

runway or helipad to safely handle the anticipated 

aircraft movements. 

Records of all inspections shall be maintained at the 

facility. 

4.4 Closure of Landing Areas 

Where an inspection identifies that a runway or 

helipad cannot accommodate safe operations, such 

action as is necessary shall be taken to restrict or 

prohibit aircraft movements until the situation is 

rectified, including any notifications required by 

regulatory authorities having jurisdiction over the 

facility. 

There shall be the correct markers available to 

indicate the closure of runways or helipads such that 

these markings are clearly visible to approaching 

aircraft and are in accordance with ICAO 

recommendations. 

4.5 Lighting 

Permanent lighting systems with back-up power 

supply shall be provided if night flying operations are 

routinely carried out 

Emergency lighting systems shall be provided for 

24-hour emergency capability. Emergency lighting 

shall be available and stored in a readily accessible 

and protected location. 

4.6 Communications 

The facility shall have communications equipment 

and protocols for contact with and between aircraft 

using the facility. 

4.7 Meteorological Information 

Where aircraft operating from a WMC controlled 

ground facility have no access to an established 

meteorological service for the area, meteorological 

equipment should be provided at the facility to be 

able to monitor air temperature, barometric pressure, 

wind speed and direction. 

Each airstrip and helipad shall have wind 

direction/strength indicators (windsocks) positioned 

such that they are clearly visible to approaching 

aircraft. Where night operations are conducted, the 

windsocks shall be adequately illuminated. 

4.8 Third Party Access 

Ground facilities installed, managed and maintained 

by WMC are generally for the exclusive use by 

WMC operations. Access to these facilities by third 

parties should be discouraged (except for 

emergencies) unless a prior agreement has been 

entered into by WMC and the other party and issues 

such as any applicable charges for services, 

insurances and indemnities have been agreed. Each 

facility shall have a procedure for approving aircraft 

access to the facility by third parties and obtaining 

appropriate indemnities for such access or for any 

services provided by WMC. 

4.9 Insurance and Indemnity 

Contractors to WMC who provide or participate in 

aviation related ground services at a WMC owned 

facility, such as fuel supply and storage, refuelling, 

baggage handling, loading or unloading aircraft, or 

similar duties shall have in their agreements with 

WMC insurance and indemnity provisions which 

address the risks associated with those activities. 

Guidance on these issues shall be obtained from 

WMC’s Risk Management Group. 

5 Fuel Supply and Handling 

5.1 Provision of Fuel Supply 

Wherever practicable, fuel supply and handling for 

aviation operations should be provided by the charter 

company or an authorised fuel supply company. 

Where it is necessary for WMC to be involved in the 

supply and handling of aviation fuel, WMC’s Risk 

Management Group shall review the insurance and 

indemnity provisions of 

• the agreements relating to these operations. and 

• the agreements between WMC and charter 

companies using these services. 

5.2 Design and Installation of Fuel Storage 

and Delivery Systems 

In Australia, systems shall be designed and operated 

in accordance with the relevant Australian Standard 

for the storage and handling of flammable liquids. 

For international operations, systems shall be 

designed and operated in accordance with the 

requirements of the regulatory authority having 

jurisdiction but shall be not less than the minimum 

required by any of the Australian, British or US 

standards for the storage and handling of flammable 

liquids. 

Fuel storage areas shall be located such that they 

pose the least hazard to aircraft operations, personnel 

and adjacent property. 






The fuel storage areas shall be provided with a level 

of security which is appropriate for the operational 

area. 

5.3 Drum Fuel 

Bulk fuel storage systems should be used in 

preference to drum fuel where this is possible. 

Where storage is to be in drums, the drums shall be 

stored off the ground on their sides with the bungs 

below liquid level. 

A stock control system shall be implemented to 

ensure that the fuel drums are segregated by batch 

number and filling date and that the oldest stocks are 

used first. 

Drum fuel stocks shall be inspected at least weekly 

for leaks and correct storage practices. 

5.4 Safety 

Aircraft refueling locations shall be clearly marked 

and located so that minimum safety precautions and 

distances from other hazards are maintained. Fully 

operational fire extinguishers shall be provided at 

aircraft refueling locations. 

5.5 Environmental Protection 

Fuel storage areas shall: 

• comply with relevant environmental protection 

regulations, including any requirements for 

containment of spills 

• be located within bunded compounds to contain 

accidental spills or be subject to other appropriate 

spill management 

• be designed to minimise the potential for water 

contamination of fuel supplies 

A fuel spill response and clean-up plan shall be 

developed for the facility’s fuel storage areas. 

5.6 Fuel handling Procedures 

Each site shall have written procedures for the supply 

and storage of fuel, and for the refueling of aircraft 

which shall include measures for the control of 

passengers and other personnel during refueling 

operations. 

5.7 Aircraft Refueling 

During aircraft refueling, the pilot or other nominated 

crew member shall be responsible for ensuring both 

the safety of the aircraft and the grade and quality of 

the fuel delivered. Ground personnel involved in 

fuelling operations shall be trained in the correct 

procedures for aircraft refueling. Records of such 

training shall be kept. 

Hot refueling of aircraft shall not be permitted except 

for helicopter underslung load operations where 

minimal fuel loads are required for safe operation. 

Detailed operating procedures shall be compiled for 

these operations. 

5.8 Refueling Equipment 

The refueling system shall include: 

• filtration equipment for the removal of water 

• filtration equipment to remove solids 

• earthing points and earthing leads 

• pipe and hose end caps to prevent contamination 

• appropriate hoses 

• hose storage reels. 

Fuel filters shall be provided for each different fuel 

used and clearly marked to identify the fuel type for 

which they are to be used. “Go No-Go” filters shall 

be used for Jet A1 fuel. 

5.9 Quality Testing of Fuel 

It is of vital importance that the fuel delivered to an 

aircraft is of the correct grade and is uncontaminated. 

Aviation fuel shall be quality tested on receipt from a 

supplier and prior to refueling an aircraft. Procedures 

and materials shall be provided for the quality testing 

of aviation fuel. 

Before refueling an aircraft from drum stocks, tests 

shall be made: 

• on Jet A1 fuel using Shell water detector capsules 

• on aviation gasoline (AVGAS) using water 

detector paste. 

5.10 Records 

Records shall be kept of: 

• all receipts of fuel 

• all fuel supplied to aircraft 

• all quality testing of fuel 

• all inspections and maintenance carried out on the 

fuel facilities, which shall include details on the use 

of filters and hoses, replacement of filters and the 

dates of manufacture of the hoses. 

6 Standard Procedures 

6.1 Standard Work Procedures 

The facility shall develop Standard Work Procedures 

(SWP) for the aviation related tasks performed at the 

facility and should include, but not be limited to: 

• The inspection and maintenance of runways and 

helipads 






• The storage, quality testing and handling of fuel 

• The refueling of aircraft 

• Communications with aircraft 

• Aircraft baggage control and handling 

• The consignment and handling of dangerous goods 

by air. 

6.2 Emergency Response Plans 

WMC ground facilities shall have an Emergency 

Response Plan (ERP) which details the response 

procedures for potential aviation related incidents at 

the facility or involving aircraft operating from the 

facility. 

These should include but not be limited to: 

• Aircraft missing 

• Aircraft emergency landing 

• Aircraft crash 

• Fire associated with an aircraft crash 

• Fire associated with fuel storage and refueling 

The ERP shall detail: 

• Identification of potential emergency situations 

• Responsibilities of individuals and organisations 

• Communication procedures between the ground 

facility and other affected or involved parties 

• Resources available 

• A schedule for training and emergency trials 

• Methods of search and rescue. 

6.3 Reporting of Incidents 

All aviation related hazards and incidents shall: 

• Be reported in accordance with WMC’s Incident 

Reporting System 

• Be reported to the WMC Aviation Coordinator. 






APPENDICES 

A Definitions 

Commercial Airline 

Aircraft 

Charter company 

Current 

A scheduled Regular Public Transport air carrier 

Aeroplanes and helicopters 

An aircraft operating company, other than an commercial airline, that is 

authorised by its governing regulatory authority to carry out air transport of 

passengers and cargo at unscheduled and irregular times between client 

nominated locations 

Current in relation to the non-preferred commercial airline list means that the list 

has been reviewed and updated annually or following a significant aviation 

incident or accident. 

Current in relation to charter companies means within the audit approval date. 

Dangerous Goods 

Ground facilities 

Miscellaneous charter 

services contract 

Practicable 

Remote area 

Articles or substances which are capable of posing a risk to health, safety or to 

property when transported by air and which require special handling or 

packaging as specified in the IATA regulations for the transport of dangerous 

goods by air 

Facilities and infrastructure provided for the handling of passengers/freight, 

landing, take off, refueling and servicing of aircraft 

A short form of contract which should be used when there is a foreseeable need 

for occasional charter services over a period of time but not necessarily on a 

continuous basis, or a need for a one-off flight. 

Technically feasible, economically justifiable and contributing to the reduction 

of risk 

An area with little or no established emergency infrastructure 

Shall, should and may Shall: A mandatory requirement, 

Should: Where the requirement is not implemented, the justification for 

non-adoption and evidence of an alternative solution shall be provided. 

May: 

A discretionary requirement i.e. the person authorised to make a 

judgement is to use their discretion. 






Term charter contract 

A contract form which should be used when there is a foreseeable need for a 

frequent and regular charter service of a particular type, such as for fly in - fly 

out services, or where a dedicated charter service is required for continuous 

support for a particular operation 

B Related Documents 

International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Annex 14 (Aerodromes) 

Australian Civil Aviation Advisory Publication 92. 

International Airborne Geophysics Safety Association (IAGSA) Safety Policy Manual. 

C Revision Information 

This is the fourth issue of this Standard. 

Revision 3 issued 16/08/01 




Section 

Purpose and Scope 

1.2 Commercial Airlines 

1.3 Responsibilities 

2.1 Contracting Charter Companies 

2.2.1 Requirements for Audits 

Performance of Audits 

2.2.2 Audit Reports 

2.3.1 Aircraft Selection 

2.3.3 Flight and Duty Limits 

2.3.5 Weighing of Passengers 

Difference 

First dot point add “commercial”. Second paragraph add “unless 

operating from a WMC controlled facility”. Last three paragraphs 

deleted (removed to Responsibilities) 

“Commercial added to all airline references. First dot point changed. 

Last two sentences changed. 

New section added 

Last two sentences added. Reference to appendix E deleted. 

Last two paragraphs changed 

Heading deleted 

First paragraph wording amended. Third paragraph wording 

amended. 

Second paragraph wording amended 

Last paragraph amended 

Appendix L now appendix H 

2.3.7 Passengers Safety Briefings Eight dot point added 






Section 

2.3.9 Dangerous Goods 

2.3.12 Non WMC Charter Flights 

Difference 

Section reference changed. “and ICAO” removed from last 

sentence. 

Last sentence amended 

2.3.15 Smoking Restrictions 

Last two dot points amended 

2.3.18 Flights Over Water First and last sentences amended 

3.1 Specialised Roles 

First paragraph deleted. Second and third paragraphs added 

3.2 Passengers 

Paragraph amended 

4.1 Design Requirements 

First paragraph amended 

4.2 Helipads 

Words “or chosen” added 

5.3 Drum Fuel 

First sentence amended 

6.3 Reporting of Incidents 

Wording amended 

App A Definitions 

Airline and aircraft definitions amended 

App B Related Documents 

References added 

App D Aeroplane or Helicopter 

Wording amended 

App D Flight Planning 

First dot point amended 

App E Contracting Guidelines 

Removed 

App E Aircrew Experience Requirements 

Changed letter from “I” 

App E Aircrew Experience Requirements 

Removed the word "Aircraft" from the heading which was 

immediately after the word “Aeroplane” 

App E Co-Pilot – Current IR contract a/c Replaced “Command” in the >5700kg & All Jets column & replaced 

with the word co-pilot 

Inserted (5) alongside the new entry to relate to a new note 

at the foot of the page. 

Replace "Co-pilot" in the





Section 

App F Tender Timetable Guide 

App F Sample Flight Manifest 

App G Miscellaneous Charter Service 

Contracts 

App G Passenger Post Trip Report 

App H Sample Charter Request Form 

App H Standard Passenger Weights 

App I 

App I 

App I 

App I 

App I 

App I 

App I 

App I 

App I 

App I 

Specialist Role Aviation Services 

Introduction 

Operational Procedures 

Aircraft Performance and Crewing 

Communications and Flight Following 

Specific Requirements for Airborne 

Geophysical Surveys 

Specific Requirements for Aerial 

Operations on Pastoral Stations – Last 

Light and Passengers 

Specific Requirements for Helicopter 

External Lifting Operations – 

Helicopter Requirements 


External Lifting Operations – Load 

Handling Crew 


External Lifting Operations – Lifting 

Equipment 

Difference 

Removed 

Changed letter from “J” 

Removed 

Changed letter from “K” 

Removed 

Changed letter from “L” 

Changed letter from “M” 

Last paragraph removed, new paragraph added 

Last dot point “health” 

Third paragraph wording amended 

Second paragraph amended 

Removed 

Wording amended in both sub sections 

Third paragraph amended 

Second dot point amended 

Last dot point added 






D Planning Summary for Aviation Operations 

Specialist The information Advice presented in this Appendix is for 

use as a check list to prompt additional investigation 

by personnel who may be involved in planning air 

operations. It is not intended to be exhaustive or 

technically specific. It is important that specialist 

advice is obtained on these matters from aviation 

consultants engaged by WMC for that purpose. 

Establish the Requirements 

The provision of safe and efficient air services 

requires appropriate planning. Attempting to 

establish aviation support services at short notice, 

with less than adequate time to conduct safety and 

operational performance checks, substantially 

increases the risks to personnel and property 

associated with these services. 

Safe and economically viable alternatives to the use 

of air operations should be considered. 

Airlines or Charters 

• Use airlines using jet aircraft in preference to 

charters when possible 

• Seek guidance on use of airlines who operate 

small or piston engined aircraft 

• Seek guidance on use of airlines in developing 

countries. 

Define the Requirements 

Seek specialist guidance throughout the 

planning process 

• Nature and frequency of flights 

• Volume of passenger traffic and freight 

• Type of aircraft (aeroplane, helicopter, size, etc) 

• Level of ground support and infrastructure 

• Operating environment (terrain, climate, 

remoteness, etc) 

• Applicable regulations 

• Safety management and emergency response 

needs 

• Time to establish agreements (tendering, sourcing 

aircraft, etc.) 

• Specialised role needs 

• Training of personnel. 

Aircraft Requirements 

The type of aircraft used requires consideration of 

factors such as the role it is required to perform, 

availability, airstrip limitations, location and 

climate. The impact of these factors on the aircraft’s 

payload and performance should be considered 

when planning the services. When the requirement 

is defined as closely as possible, seek specialist 

guidance to review the technical aspects of the 

proposal. 

Single or Multi-engine aircraft 

• Multi engine aircraft of satisfactory single engine 

performance should be used wherever possible 

• Single engine aircraft should only be used for 

passenger transport if such use has been approved 

following an aviation audit 

• For single engine aircraft consider safe routing 

and the ability to make a safe emergency landing 

at all times. 

Aeroplane or Helicopter 

• Generally aeroplanes are safer and cheaper to 

operate 

• Preference should be for aeroplanes whenever 

practicable 

• Consider availability of, or the need to establish 

airstrips. 

Aircraft Type 

• Jet, turboprop or piston engine for aeroplane 

• Turbine engine only for helicopters. 

Obtain specialist advice on the following issues: 

• Performance suitability for service, landing areas, 

terrain, etc. 

• Operations capability (visual or instrument) 

• Consider weather conditions and need for 

pressurised aircraft 

• Consider limitations on helicopter performance. 

Equipment Fitted 

• Minimum regulatory requirements apply 

• Consider need for special safety equipment for 

specific roles 

– Life jackets, life rafts, flotation gear, etc. 

– Freight restraining devices 

– Upper torso restraint (UTR). 






Obtain specialist advice on equipment fit and 

requirements for specialised roles. 

Aircrew 

• Two pilots required : 

– on charter aircraft certified for more than 8 

passengers 

– on IFR flights (may require flight in clouds or 

conditions of low visibility) 

– for night flying 

• Periodic check and training flights required 

Aircrew Experience 

• Minimum regulatory and WMC Standard 

requirements apply 

• Additional experience required for certain 

specialised roles 

– Low level or difficult terrain flying 

– Geophysical surveys 

– External loads 

– Winching 

• Offshore helicopter operations. 

Flight Time/Duty Hours 

• Minimum regulatory and WMC Standard 

requirements apply 

• Consider impact of limits on planned flight 

operations 

• Restrictions apply to certain specialised tasks. 

Flight Operations 

Being properly prepared for the intended flight 

operations can avoid difficulties in administration of 

the operation as well as significantly enhance safety 

management. 

Flight Planning 

• Flight procedures required (ie VFR (daylight and 

good visual conditions) or IFR flights - determines 

type of aircraft, equipment fit, experience and 

training of crew) 

• Availability of meteorological information 

• Flight following procedures. 

Passengers and Briefings 

• Procedures for briefing passengers on flight safety 

• Availability of briefing cards on the aircraft 

• Information provided in language understood by 

passengers 

• Should include such information as: 

– Restricted items 

– Access to/egress from aircraft 

– Location and use of emergency equipment 

– Emergency procedures and exits 

– Restricted activities 

– Flight details 

• Flight manifesting procedures and documents 

• Policy on carrying third party passengers. 

Infrastructure for Aviation Operations 

The infrastructure available to support flight 

operations can have a significant impact on the 

performance and the safety management of the 

operation. It is important to address infrastructure 

issues as an integral part of the planning process. 

Limitations of the available ground facilities can 

impact on the performance expected from the 

aircraft. Consideration must be given to issues such 

as fuel supplies and refueling, passenger and freight 

handling, maintenance, communications and 

emergency response resources available. The cost of 

upgrading existing facilities may be uneconomic for 

the services envisaged and thus may impact 

significantly on aircraft selection. Strategic planning 

of new developments should consider the long term 

potential for air support needs when designing and 

constructing aviation facilities. 

Airfields and Landing Areas 

• Geographic location and climatic conditions 

• Runway surface, dimensions and peripheral areas 

• Marking of landing areas 

• Obstacles in peripheral areas (Obstacle Limitation 

Surfaces) 

• Limitations on aircraft performance 

• Maintenance and inspections of facilities 

• Lighting needs for night flying or medical 

evacuations 

• Communications and meteorological equipment 

required 

• Consider any security measures required. 

Fuel Supply, Storage and Refueling 

• Involvement of fuel supply company 

• Bulk storage preferred to drums 

• Inspection and maintenance of fuel facilities 

• Regulatory requirements 

• Quality control/testing of fuel 

• Procedures for handling fuel supply and refueling 

• Prevention of contamination 





• Environmental management of fuel facilities 

• Competency of personnel and training needs. 

Passenger, Baggage and Freight 

Administration 

• Procedures for booking air travel by charter 

• Procedures and equipment for weight 

determination 

• Control of passengers before and after flight 

• Procedures for baggage and freight handling 

• Procedures for dangerous goods transport by air. 

Emergency Response 

• Identify potential incidents 

• Develop response procedures 

• Identify resources available and required 

• Speed of response is critical 

• Competency of personnel and training needs 

• Testing of emergency response procedures 

• Develop appropriate SAR procedures 

• Involve local knowledge 

• Identify external resources available in 

emergency. 




MHS 03 - Aviation Standard documen Revision 3 issued 20 August 2001 


E Aircrew Experience Requirements 

AEROPLANE 

HELICOPTERS 

MTOW 

>5700 kg 

& All Jets 


MHS 03 - Aviation Standard documen Revision 3 issued 20 August 2001 


Total hours last 90 days 50 (10 on type) 50 (10 on type) 50 (10 on type) 50 (10 on type) 50 (10 on type) 50 (10 on type) 50 (10 on type) 

AEROPLANE 

HELICOPTERS 

MTOW 

>5700 kg 

& All Jets 





F Sample Flight Manifest 

AIRCRAFT TYPE ___________________ REG NO _____________ DATE _____________ 

CAPTAIN 

_________________________ CO-PILOT _________________________ 

FROM __________________ ETD ________ 

TO ____________________ ETA ________ 

No Name Company Pax Wt 

(kg) 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

10 

11 

12 

13 

14 

15 

Baggage 

Wt (kg) 

Total 

Total Wt 

(kg) 

Item Description of Freight Wt (kg) 

Total 

Total Weight of Pax and Freight 

WMC Representative .......................................... Aircraft Captain ............................................................ 

SAF-MHS-03 Rev. 03 Docs: 55221 Issued: 20/08/01 Page 19 of 29





G Passenger Post Trip Report 

PASSENGER POST TRIP REPORT 

Passengers (in the case of a group, its nominated representative) completing a flight provided by a contracted charter 

service may complete this questionnaire and return it to the SAC or WMC Aviation Coordinator. 

1. Crew names: Pilot ............................................................................. 

Co-Pilot ........................................................................ 

2. Type of Aircraft ......................................................................... Aircraft Registration No. .............................. 

Charter Company's name: ..................................................................... 

Flight from ..................................................................... to 

Date 

3. Did you receive a safety briefing YES NO 

Were safety leaflets available YES NO 

Did the crew indicate the emergency exits YES NO 

Were the emergency exists marked clearly YES NO 

Did you pass through any security check YES NO 

4. Were the passengers weighed YES NO 

Was the baggage weighed YES NO 

Was the baggage stowed in the hold YES NO 

If YES, was it tied down YES NO 

5. Were the ground facilities for passengers adequate YES NO 

Did the flight take off on time YES NO 

Did you receive any in-flight information YES NO 

Were the ‘NO SMOKING/FASTEN SEAT BELTS’ signs used YES NO 

6. Was there any aspect of the flight that you considered unusual YES NO 

If YES, give brief details: 

7. Are there any other comments you would wish to give in addition to the above, e.g. the pilot's handling of the 

flight, the flight in general, any discomfort during the flight, etc 

Passengers Immediate Supervisor ..................................................................................... 






Passengers Name………………………………………………………………………. 






H Standard Passenger Weights 

Suggested Standard Passenger Weights (kg) CAAP 235-1(1) 

Max Seat 

Capacity of 

Aircraft 

(inc crew) 

Adult Male 

Adult 

Female 

Infant 

0-3 yrs 

Child 

4-12 yrs 

Adolescent 

Male 

13-16 yrs 

Adolescent 

Female 

13-16 yrs 

12-14 86 70 16 43 64 58 

15-19 85 69 16 43 63 57 

20-39 84 69 16 42 63 57 

40-59 83 68 16 42 62 56 

60-79 82.5 67.3 16 41 61.4 55.4 






I Specialised Role Aviation Services 

Introduction 

This appendix provides guidance on the preparation 

and management of specialised role aviation 

services. Such services require a level of training 

and flight management additional to that required 

for routine flight operations. 

These include: 

• aerial pipeline inspection patrols 

• aerial operations on pastoral stations including 

mustering 

• helicopter external lifting operations and winching 

When planning these operations, guidance should be 

obtained from WMC’s Aviation Consultants. 

Airborne geophysical surveys shall be conducted 

in accordance with the International Airborne 

Geophysics Safety Association (IAGSA) Safety 

Policy Manual. Only members of IAGSA shall 

conduct these surveys. 

Risk Evaluation 

Specialised aviation operations shall be subjected to 

a risk evaluation. This should involve the aircraft 

operator, the WMC representative coordinating the 

work, an aviation consultant appointed by WMC. 

and representatives of other groups that may be 

directly involved in the operation. The evaluation 

shall include but not be limited to : 

• Terrain relief and elevation 

• Aircraft type and performance 

• Aircrew experience and recency 

• Aircrew flight and duty times 

• Weather conditions, including operational weather 

limits 

• Identification of hazards associated with the 

operational procedures 

• Man made obstructions 

• Emergency response capability. 

The risk evaluation process should result in the 

adoption of control measures which will mitigate the 

risks to personnel involved in the operation. 

Operational Procedures 

Detailed operational procedures shall be prepared 

for any specialised role flying operation. These 

procedures should include but not be limited to the 

following areas: 

• Description of the scope of the work including 

specific WMC contract requirements 

• Roles and responsibilities of groups and 

individuals 

• Description of the area of operations including an 

area map showing local hazards 

• Aircraft performance, operating procedures, 

crewing and flight and duty times 

• Provision and management of ground support for 

the aircraft operation 

• Communications and flight following procedures 

• Emergency response including Search and Rescue 

procedures 

• Airstrips to be used and available within the area 

of operations 

• Safety and Health management 

Aircraft Performance and Crewing 

Operating parameters for the aircraft carrying out 

the work should be identified. Non-standard 

modifications to the aircraft are to be certified by the 

relevant aviation regulatory authority. Guidance 

should be obtained from WMC’s Aviation 

Consultants on the suitability of the aircraft for the 

work planned and the flight environment. 

In addition to regulatory minimum instrument 

standards and other equipment requirements of the 

WMC Aviation Standard, aircraft used for 

specialised roles requiring low level flying should 

have shoulder harnesses for all occupants, a clear, 

unscratched canopy and appropriate securing 

mechanisms for any additional instrumentation. 

Aircraft crewing for specialised operations varies 

with the nature of the operation, aircraft size and 

sophistication, the terrain overflown, the type of any 

additional equipment installed and the degree of 

monitoring required by that equipment. For low 

level operations and operations in mountainous 

terrain, pilots (and co-pilots where carried) should 

have successfully completed flight training 

programmes for both the special role and the 

particular flying environment. 

Crew experience requirements for specific 

specialised flying operations are provided in 

relevant sections of this Appendix. 






Flying Height and Airspeed 

Low level flying is inherently dangerous and the 

risks generally increase as the flying height is 

lowered. Aircraft engaged in low level operations 

shall be flown at the maximum clearance height 

possible consistent with the objectives of the work. 

The aircraft should not be flown at an airspeed 

below that which gives the minimum rate of descent 

in the event of an engine failure. 

During any transit flights to/from an operational 

area, the aircraft should be flown at an altitude 

considered to be a normal safe flying height for the 

aircraft and the area of operations. 

Area of Operations 

The geographical area and boundaries for the 

operations are to be identified including any special 

zones or areas relevant to the work. Climatic and 

topographical information should be provided. 

Particular attention should be given to obstacles and 

other hazards to flight operations. Large scale maps 

of the area should be provided. 

Where appropriate, community consultation should 

take place to inform the community of planned 

operations in the area. Such liaison should continue 

throughout the operations. 

Aircraft flown in low level operations should not be 

operated in close proximity to personnel on the 

ground. Prior to any low level operations, adequate 

safety margins and controls shall be established 

which minimise the hazards to personnel and 

property during such operations. 

Communications and Flight Following 

Effective and reliable communications should be 

established between the aircraft and any base camp 

supporting the aircraft for the duration of the 

activity. Where terrain or special equipment being 

used prevents constant radio contact, provision is to 

be made for ‘ops normal’ calls at prior agreed 

intervals. These are to be stipulated in the 

operational procedures, and should be preferably 30 

minutes but not exceeding 45 minutes. 

A log shall be maintained at the base camp of all 

communications between the aircraft and the base. 

The log shall record all position reports, their time 

and the remaining aircraft endurance. 

Where a Flight Service is involved in the monitoring 

of the aircraft, liaison between the aircraft operator 

and the Flight Service responsible for the area 

should identify the intended area of operations, and 

methods by which position reports can be given. 

Details of any ground party supporting the 

operation, and methods by which they can be 

contacted, should be registered with Flight Service 

prior to the operation. 

Search and Rescue Coverage 

As part of the emergency response procedures, a 

search and rescue (SAR) plan is to be established 

and outlined in the operational procedures. Daily 

SAR briefings are to be given prior to any flying 

activity. The SAR plan is to incorporate the 

communications and flight following procedures 

adopted for the operation. 

Aircraft engaged in specialised operations are to be 

in radio contact with an appropriate organisation 

holding SAR responsibility. If a national service is 

not available, WMC or the aircraft operator is to 

assume that responsibility and ensure that 

appropriate resources are available to conduct an 

effective SAR response. 

Clothing 

Personnel in aircraft conducting low level 

specialised role flights, should wear clothing which 

offers protection against possible hazards and which 

is appropriate for the local conditions. 

It is recommended that the following be worn: 

• cotton or other non-synthetic garments 

• flying helmet meeting industry safety standards 

• robust shoes 

Specific Requirements for Airborne 

Pipeline Inspection Patrols 

Aircraft 

Aircraft used in pipeline inspection patrols may be 

either single engine or multi engine and shall: 

• be capable of safe operation at slow speeds at 

low altitudes 

• have high all round visibility capability 

• have serviceable wing strobe lights 

• shall display its landing lights during the 

inspection patrol 






Guidance should be obtained from WMC’s aviation 

consultants on the acceptability of aircraft proposed 

for inspection patrols. 

Air Crew 

Single engine aircraft shall be crewed by a pilot and 

an observer. Multi engine aircraft shall be crewed by 

two pilots and an observer. 

Pilots shall have a minimum experience level of 

2000 hours in command of the category of aircraft 

used for the survey. 

Pilots shall be line checked on low level survey 

flying. Where pilots have not undertaken such 

operations in the preceding 12 months, a line check 

flight is required before the pilot is used on the 

inspection patrol. 

Instructions to Flight Crew 

The flight crew shall be briefed on their respective 

roles for the inspection patrol and on the importance 

of teamwork in this specialised task. The pilot shall 

focus on maintaining the aircraft in a suitable 

position for optimum inspection visibility for the 

observer and on observing for hazards to the flight 

operation. The observer shall focus on inspection of 

the pipeline and alerting the pilot to plotted 

obstacles along the pipeline route. 

Flight Time Limits 

Low level flight time should be limited to a 

maximum of 6 hours. The time for the inspection 

patrol should not exceed 8 hours. 

Passengers 

Passengers shall not be carried on aircraft 

conducting aerial pipeline inspections. 

Specific Requirements for Aerial 

Operations on Pastoral Stations 

The following specific requirements apply to aerial 

operations on pastoral stations. This includes but is 

not limited to mustering, spotting and baiting. 

Aircraft 

Aircraft used in support of pastoral operations shall 

be appropriate to the task being performed and shall: 

• be capable of safe operation at slow speeds at 

low altitudes 

• have high all round visibility capability 

Guidance should be obtained from WMC’s aviation 

consultants on the acceptability of aircraft proposed 

for pastoral operations. 

Air Crew 



used for the service and shall have the correct 

endorsements for the aerial activity to be performed. 

Aerial mustering operations shall only be conducted 

by pilots who have a current aerial mustering rating 

on the category of aircraft used. 

For operations below 500 feet above ground level, 

pilots shall hold a low level endorsement for the 

category of aircraft used and shall have a minimum 

of 500 hours in command of low level operations. 

Prior to commencement of any low level operation, 

pilots shall have had 10 hours in command of low 

level operations within the preceding 90 days and 50 

hours in command of the aircraft type within the 

preceding 90 days. 

Instructions to Flight and Ground Crew 

Prior to the start of aerial work in support of pastoral 

operations, the WMC pastoral station manager shall 

brief the personnel involved on the conduct of the 

work including but not limited to: 

• individual roles and responsibilities 

• authority to change the scope and conduct of the 

work 

• locations of all sites included in the planned 

work 

• number and location of ground support crews 

the type of transport to be used by the ground 

support crews 

• the availability and standard of airstrips 

• communications equipment and protocols 

• fuel supply and fuel quality control 

• the location of any wires, obstructions or other 

hazards to aircraft 

• the search and rescue procedures 

actions in the event of an emergency 

• the location and type of first aid equipment 

available. 

Flight Time Limits 

Low level flight time should be limited to a 

maximum of 6 hours. The total flying time should 

not exceed 8 hours per day, including the time for 

any positioning flights. 






Last Light 

Operations in the vicinity of last light reduce safety 

margins through reduction of pilot’s perceptive 

skills and through increased activity by wild life 

near airstrips. It is also desirable to have daylight 

hours remaining in which to mount a search in the 

event of an aircraft accident. Adequate time margins 

shall be used to ensure that aerial tasks are 

completed prior to the onset of failing light 

conditions. 

Passengers 

Passengers are not to be carried on aircraft used for 

aerial work in support of pastoral station operations. 

Carriage of Firearms and Animals 

The carriage of and/or discharge of firearms from 

aircraft shall be permitted only in accordance with 

regulatory approvals and controls and by personnel 

qualified and licensed to do so. 

The carriage of animals in aircraft shall be permitted 

only in accordance with regulatory approvals. 


External Lifting Operations 

Preparation 

Preparations for operations involving external loads 

by helicopters shall involve key personnel from the 

principal parties associated with the operation. This 

shall include : 

• WMC representative(s) for the operation 

• helicopter operator personnel 

• contractors whose equipment is to be moved 

• ground logistics personnel 

An inspection of the operational sites by aviation 

and logistics personnel during the planning stage is 

recommended. 

Guidance shall be obtained from WMC’s aviation 

consultants when planning external load operations 

using helicopters. 

Helicopter Requirements 

Helicopters used in external load operations may be 

either single engine or multi engine and shall : 

• be approved for external load operations by the 

relevant certifying authority 

• have an approved flight manual identifying the 

load performance limitations for the helicopter 

• have both electrical and mechanical release 

mechanisms 

• be equipped with external mirrors to observe the 

helicopter hook assembly 

Guidance shall be obtained from WMC’s Aviation 

Consultants on the acceptability of helicopters 

proposed for external load operations. 

Non-standard modifications to the helicopter shall 

be certified by the relevant aviation regulatory 

authority. 

Air Crew 



used for the work and shall have the correct 

endorsements for the operations to be performed. 

Pilots and co-pilots shall hold an endorsement for 

helicopter external load operations on the 

appropriate weight category or type and have a 

minimum of 200 hours sling time. Where flight crew 

have not undertaken such operations in the 

preceding 12 months, a line check flight is required 

before a pilot is used on helicopter external load 

operations, on like operations to those proposed. 

Where non-pilot crew members are carried, they 

shall be trained in external load and winch 

operations as appropriate, and in helicopter loading, 

helicopter safety and emergency equipment and 

procedures. 

Passengers On Helicopters 

Passengers shall not be carried in helicopters 

conducting external load operations. 

Landing Areas 

The layout and dimensions of helicopter landing 

areas should conform wherever practicable to the 

requirements of ICAO Annex 14 - Heliports. 

Where the nature of the operation and the operating 

environment makes it impracticable to do this, 

landing areas should be established having 

consideration to the following factors: 

• the ability of the helicopter to make a safe 

landing in the event of engine failure on take-off 

or during final stages of landing 

• provision of a helipad surface of a size and of 

materials suited to the helicopter being used 

• provision of adequate rotor clearance from 

obstacles in the vicinity of the landing area 

• separation of personnel and vehicle traffic from 

the helicopter operating areas 

• elimination of loose materials in the landing area 

which would become airborne in rotor downwash 






• separation of fuel facilities from the landing area 

• elimination of projections adjacent to the landing 

area which might hazard under-slung loads 

Where there is a requirement for a helicopter 

(particularly skid fitted) to shut down engines at a 

remote or confined landing area, a contingency plan 

should be made to provide for access to the location 

by another helicopter in the event the first helicopter 

becomes unserviceable. 

Alternative landing areas should be identified that 

are available in the event of an emergency. 

Contingency plans should be prepared 

Hot Refueling 

Hot or rotors running refueling of helicopters shall 

not be permitted unless there is an over-riding 

operational necessity to do so. 

Where hot refueling is required by operational 

necessity: 

• detailed written procedures for the operation 

shall be in place 

• the procedures shall be specific to the type of 

helicopter 

• personnel involved in the operation shall have 

received formal training in the refueling 

procedures 

Load Handling Procedures 

The operating procedures shall describe the load 

management and handling procedures to be used in 

the operation. The responsibilities of the load 

handling ground crew and the flight crew should be 

specified. The pilot in command of the helicopter 

shall have responsibility for the acceptance of the 

load handling procedures adopted for the operation. 

The procedures should identify the hazards involved 

in the load handling operation and the controls 

required to be in place to mitigate the potential for 

accidents. 

Load Planning 

A load plan should be prepared for the operation by 

the flight crew and the load handling ground crew. 

All items to be transported shall be weighed and 

marked. Loads should be pre-slung wherever 

possible. Loads shall not exceed those approved for 

the type of helicopter used. 

Load Handling Crew 

When picking up external loads, the helicopter 

should be attended by a load handling crew 

comprising : 

• loadmaster - solely responsible for 

communicating with the pilot and directing the 

helicopter over the load. Communication 

between the loadmaster and the pilot shall be by 

both radio and hand signals. 

• hook operator - to connect the load to the 

helicopter’s cargo hook 

When dropping loads, only the loadmaster is 

required to attend the helicopter. Other personnel 

should be kept clear of the drop area. 

Only personnel who have received training in load 

handling procedures shall form the load handling 

crew. 

Loadmasters shall wear clothing to distinguish them 

from other personnel on the ground and be readily 

identifiable to helicopter pilots. 

Lifting Equipment 

Lifting equipment shall be: 

• provided with valid, current test certificates 

• dedicated to helicopter external load operations 

and kept separate from other lifting gear 

• inspected and maintained on a regular basis with 

records kept of its maintenance 

• rigged with a swivel in the line 

All items in the load lifting assembly shall have a 

breaking strain of at least four times the weight of 

the heaviest load to be lifted. 

Helicopter cargo hook release mechanisms should 

be tested daily. 

Dangerous Goods 

Items classed as Dangerous Goods may be carried as 

external loads in accordance with the following 

guidelines: 

• explosives and detonators shall not be transported 

on the same flight; 

• explosives should be carried as external loads 

wherever possible; 

• detonators shall be carried only as external loads 

but may be combined with compatible or inert 

goods; 

• the operator shall have approval to carry 

dangerous goods. 

Personal Protective Equipment 

Personnel working around helicopters engaged in 

external load operations shall wear protection 

against possible hazards (dust, small objects) 

generated by rotor down-wash, noise, or accidents 

involving loads. 





Winch Operations 

Where helicopter winch operations are required, 

flight crew shall have received formal training in 

winch operations. 

Both flight crew and crewmen shall be approved by 

the regulatory authority to carry out winch 

operations. Placing, or recovery, of personnel by 

winch shall be used as a last resort only, and would 

normally be limited to emergency situations. 

Load Insurance 

The operator shall provide to WMC, proof of 

insurance cover for equipment and materials carried 

on under-slung load operations, prior to 

commencing operations. The conditions of 

insurance cover, and value of any one claim shall be 

stated as part of the operator’s Certificate of 

Currency.

Aviation Major Hazard Standard - MIRMgate

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