fly911 is right. If in doubt, if viz is deteriorating fast, etc, etc, get her down. Afteral, that's what helicopters can do, so why not use that ability in timely fashion?
Or, as I think David Dixon once advised: 'If in doubt, chicken out!"
Happened to me due rapid fog formation, and I elected to follow David and my instructor's advice from years before,,,"Dan, make an early decision, not a late one, and thus give yourself time to make a nice unhurried touchdown somewhere...preferably near where you can get a cup of tea."
My R44 and I ended up nestled between miles of olive trees atop a Spanish hill, miles from anywhere. Notified ATC by phone, revised the flightplan and everyone was happy. Lifted out of there a few hours later. Never did find the farmer - or get a cup of tea - but I'm here to tell the tale. How many are not because they feared breaking a rule, pressed on and maybe later got accused of suffering 'get there'itis'?
Dan
Last edited by Dantruck; 12th Dec 2010 at 12:46.
Reason: sticky finger syndrome