Proposed Rule 5 Changes
A good Topic - A good Discussion. Just a couple of thoughts:
Since the recent ICAO audit we, as an industry, have been hit by a stream of FODCOMs etc. from the CAA imposing changes to many long-established and safe practices (remember Aerodrome Standards trying to close down the Northern Helipad at Silverstone 2001?) Their reason is that "CAA policy is NOT to apply for National differences from ICAO standards".
To follow this policy through, the CAA should be proposing acceptance of ICAO's "Not below1000 feet" instead of maintaining the 1500 feet National Difference.
Essential that industry applies as much pressure as possible NOW to ensure that any changes to existing rules are in the best interests of 1. Safety and 2. Pilots / Operators and not as the CAA would wish to impose.
In addition to this forum and a direct approach to CAA, please write to BHAB who are working hard on this right now. Any additional comments will only help to add weight to our cause.