The luxury of flying offshore at night in rainy conditions.
It is great to be a helicopter pilot, especially when we dont fly in a controlled-runway environment with approach aids and lighting such as an ILS, VASIs, etc.
The way I view approach angles offshore will be based on a combination of variables, such as the type of helicopter you fly, layout of the offshore installation and the prevailing weather conditions.
I have seen the different approach angles in flying a Super Puma and S76, especially when looking at the performance during OEI operations (simulated of course). So what I am saying is that with a Super Puma's performance one can commit at a much later stage of the approach and be assured a controlled landing at the bottom (Good OEI performance at most weights).
In the case of the S76, the opposite holds the truth. I prefer a higher approach angle to give me the extra margin for safety and to increase my flyaway chances and once committed, it will at least get me on the deck without undershooting and clipping the edge of the deck (Poor OEI performance at all weights).
Since I use to be a rugby player, this picture works quite well for me. Regardless of your height and distance from the platform, once the helideck lighting opens up in the shape of a rugby ball or almond, that is the approach angle I fly down towards the deck. It sounds basic, but it works for me.
Best wishes and safe flying for 2004.
Cheers,
Chopper Jog