3-11-2

Helicopter/Powered‐Lift Takeoff Clearance

JO 7110.65BB, Change 3, effective July 9, 2026 · Official text on faa.gov

Issue helicopter or powered‐lift takeoff clearances from movement areas other than active runways or in diverse directions from active runways, with additional instructions as necessary. Whenever possible, issue takeoff clearance in lieu of extended hover‐taxi or air‐taxi operations.
Phraseology

(Present position, taxiway, helipad, numbers) MAKE RIGHT/LEFT TURN FOR (direction, points of compass, heading, NAVAID radial) DEPARTURE/DEPARTURE ROUTE (number, name, or code), AVOID (aircraft/vehicles/personnel),
or
REMAIN (direction) OF (active runways, parking areas, passenger terminals, etc.).
CAUTION (power lines, unlighted obstructions, trees, wake turbulence, etc.).
CLEARED FOR TAKEOFF.
If takeoff is requested from non‐movement areas, an area not authorized for helicopter or powered‐lift aircraft use, or an area off the airport, and, in your judgment, the operation appears to be reasonable, use the following phraseology instead of the takeoff clearance in subparagraph a.
Phraseology

DEPARTURE FROM (requested location) WILL BE AT YOUR OWN RISK (additional instructions, as necessary). USE CAUTION (if applicable).
Unless agreed to by the pilot, do not issue downwind takeoffs if the tailwind exceeds 5 knots.
Note

A pilot request to takeoff from a given point in a given direction constitutes agreement.