What is the recommended touchdown area for a Type 1 landing zone?

The recommended touchdown area for a Type 1 landing zone is 30 feet by 30 feet. This size is designed to accommodate the larger footprint needed for Type 1 helicopters, which are typically used for transporting patients or cargo in emergency situations. A landing zone of this size allows for adequate space not only for the helicopter to land safely but also for clearance from obstacles and provides a buffer zone for the aircraft during operations. Ensuring a proper landing zone size is crucial for pilot safety and the overall efficiency of emergency response operations.

Smaller touchdown areas may not provide the necessary safety margins for larger helicopters, which is why landing zones of 20' x 20', 15' x 15', or 25' x 25' would be inadequate for Type 1 aircraft. The 30' x 30' specification aligns with established guidelines and helps ensure that operations can be conducted safely and effectively.