Minimum Fuel
The point seems to be that there are no hard and fast rules as to what exact quantity of fuel remaining constitutes an emergency. So long as there is enough fuel remaining to allow a landing and the possibility of a go around, it will probably be enough. Declaring an emergency to facilitate a quick(er) landing at a busy airport when low on fuel would seem to be prudent. Declaring an emergency when approaching an operating base where you are the only aircraft and there will be no delay in landing, seems unnecessary.
When I started my flight training many years ago, my instructors took pains to emphasise that running out of fuel was unforgiveable and would result in the permanent loss of my right to fly assuming I survived.
My own personal view is that the aircraft should be on the ground before the main tank is indicating empty on the EC135. If the only fuel left is in the supply tanks, then a serious review of operating practices should be undertaken.
Last edited by G0ULI; 26th Feb 2014 at 22:08.
Reason: corrected EC225 to EC135