Heliport Load Rating

[Hokie0708]

I am looking at a pretty typical concrete slab that will be designed and used as an on-ground helipad in the median of a highway. The local DOT is asking for a load rating for the helipad. This is my first time looking at a helipad and from the research I have been doing, other than ensuring the slab and sub-base/soil can handle the expected loads, I cannot find anywhere that details a load rating for these areas. Am I missing something or is the DOT maybe used to getting load ratings for their roadways/bridges that they just expect the same for these pads?

TIA

 

[SlideRuleEra]

See Chapter 7 of the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) circular at the link below. The circular will not provide the numbers, but will give you guidance on how to calculate them. Also, you will need manufacturer's information on the helicopters that the pad is designed for.

FAA Circular- Heliport Design

http://www.SlideRuleEra.net

http://www.VacuumTubeEra.net

 

[TehMightyEngineer]

I'd also plan on designing it for the highway loads. Someone, somewhere will try to drive a truck over the thing. I would expect HL-93 loads to control over most helicopters.

Professional and Structural Engineer (ME, NH)
American Concrete Industries

http://www.americanconcrete.com