Which method is preferred for helicopter movements on airports?

The preferred method for helicopter movements on airports is air taxiing. This technique involves the helicopter using controlled flight while hovering or flying at low altitudes to navigate between takeoff and landing locations. Air taxiing is advantageous because it enhances safety by keeping operating procedures consistent with those used by airplanes while allowing efficient movements on the airport surface.

Using air taxiing helps manage space and traffic more effectively on busy airport grounds, providing a controlled way for helicopters to move without creating unnecessary delays or congestion. This method is also beneficial because it minimizes noise and downwash effects compared to hovering, which can disturb the environment and pose a risk to ground personnel or nearby aircraft. In contrast, hovering and direct landing can limit the operational flexibility and introduce challenges in traffic management. Autonomous landing, while innovative, is not yet widely implemented in helicopter operations, making air taxiing the standard practice for safe and efficient movements at airports.