The first thing to appreciate is that BAA are not interested in helicopters landing at LHR - they certainly don't want to encourage them. There is some sort of very limited maximum number in a time period.
The heli-aiming point is considered as "day-only". Even that is under threat because of a perceived hazard of wake vortex from the heavies - it makes no difference that there is years of experience of operating there without reported problems. Some sort of academic expressed an opinion that there was a risk. The CAA want further studies done, but they and BAA aren't proposing to pick up the tab. It is all discussed and then popped into the "too difficult" tray at things like LHR NATS & BHAB Meetings about London Zone procedures. Have a look at Rotorheads (the BHAB mag not this site), if you can.
At night, heles are not permitted to use the aiming point at all - they occupy a big slot on the runway and also get exposed to much more risk from wake vortex from heavies as a result.
This isn't an ATC thing at all really, it is imposed from elsewhere.
An MOR might be a good idea re: the parking area, but there is always the risk that it could create a(n even more) negative response to helicopters from BAA.
Last edited by Helinut; 2nd October 2003 at 21:00.