Loads and slinging for helicopter transport — a packing guide
Packing for helicopter transport has to account for several things at once — the load must withstand lifting, fly at 100 km/h to the delivery site without anything falling off or being damaged, and land precisely on the right spot when released. Good preparation cuts flight time and cost in half.
Practical lift capacity per helicopter type
| Model | Max load | Suited for |
|---|---|---|
| AS350 B3 | 1350 kg | Heavy lifts, concrete, cabins |
| AS350 BA | 800 kg | Versatile — construction, materials, aerial photography |
| EC120B | 600 kg | Light missions, passenger transport |
Practical lift capacity is reduced by temperature, air pressure, elevation above sea level and humidity on the day of the flight.
Preparations before transport
Landing site
- A minimum 20×20 m open area for the helicopter
- Level ground (the helicopter tolerates gently sloping terrain)
- No wet or sandy ground that could damage the helicopter
- Objects that could be blown about must be secured in advance
Load placement
- The load is placed along the edge of the landing site
- The area must be large enough for both the helicopter and the materials
- Ensure no people, livestock or buildings are overflown during the lifting cycle
Slinging by material type
Materials of varying length
Slung in bundles with a diagonal suspension. Longer materials may require two lifting points.
Roofing sheets and corrugated metal
Placed on a pallet with frames spanning the full length of the sheet — protecting against damage from sharp edges.
Building boards and plywood
Placed on a pallet between frames sized to the full board. Check that no boards protrude beyond the frame.
Windows and doors
Placed on a pallet, ideally sorted by size. Cushioning material between the panes guards against vibration.
Loose bulk material
Transported in a bulk bag (big bag) or an aluminium tub. Rigid bags retain their shape in the air.
Construction machinery
Slung directly (where weight and dimensions allow). Larger machines may need to be split up.
Need help with slinging?
Get in touch early and we will go through the job together — incorrect packing costs time and money on the day.
Book / get a quote → 📞 +47 980 95000