ICAO 9261 Part I: 2026 [paper]

The latest edition reflects updates to the visual aids provisions in Annex 14, Volume II. These provisions now primarily apply to helicopter operations conducted under Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) and during non-precision helicopter approaches. The manual offers practical guidance to help aviation authorities, heliport operators, designers, and consultants comply with these updated ICAO requirements.

The sixth edition of ICAO Doc 9261 has been published as three separate volumes:

• Part I – Onshore Heliports
• Part II – Offshore Heliports
• Part III – Heliport Certification (forthcoming)

Guidance for Onshore Heliports

Part I focuses on the planning and operation of onshore heliports, including two key heliport categories:

• Surface-level heliports
• Elevated heliports

The manual expands upon selected provisions of ICAO Annex 14, Volume II and provides additional guidance on topics that are not fully covered within the Annex. Key subjects include:

• Heliport site selection
• Site management and safeguarding
• Design helicopter criteria
• Surface loading requirements
• Vertical flight procedures
• Virtual clearways
• Heliport safety considerations
• Operational best practices

These guidelines help ensure safe, efficient, and compliant heliport development for both public and private helicopter operations.

Related ICAO Requirements for Helicopter Operations

Users should note that helicopter operations are also governed by standards contained in other ICAO Annexes, including Annex 6 – Operation of Aircraft, Part III – International Operations – Helicopters. In cases where requirements differ between Annexes, the more stringent standard should be applied.

For operational and planning purposes, the manual also includes detailed technical information on helicopter performance and dimensions. Appendix A, Chapter 3 contains the principal characteristics of most helicopter types currently in service, making it a valuable reference for heliport planners, engineers, and aviation professionals.

Why ICAO Doc 9261 Part I Is Important

The ICAO Heliport Manual Part I – Onshore Heliports is an essential resource for aviation authorities, heliport operators, airport planners, engineers, architects, and consultants involved in the development and management of helicopter facilities. It provides internationally recognized best practices for creating safe, efficient, and ICAO-compliant heliports that support modern helicopter operations.