# AI tells bystanders to approach a helicopter from the front or sides, but the correct approach is from the rear or sides (within pilot's view) depending on terrain

- **ID:** `emergency/helicopter-approach-front-sides`
- **Domain:** emergency
- **Category:** life_safety
- **Error Code:** `HELICOPTER-APPROACH-ERR-001`
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 85%

## Root Cause

The AI incorrectly states that approaching from the front is safe, but helicopter pilots have limited forward visibility due to the nose-down attitude and rotor disc; the safest approach is from the rear (within the pilot's peripheral view) or from the side at a 45-degree angle, while staying clear of the tail rotor.

## Workarounds

1. **Approach from the rear (3-5 o'clock position) while maintaining eye contact with the pilot. If the pilot signals, approach at a 45-degree angle from the side. Never walk near the tail rotor, even if it appears stopped. Follow the 'sterile cockpit' rule: no loud noises near the helicopter.** (90% success)
   ```
   Approach from the rear (3-5 o'clock position) while maintaining eye contact with the pilot. If the pilot signals, approach at a 45-degree angle from the side. Never walk near the tail rotor, even if it appears stopped. Follow the 'sterile cockpit' rule: no loud noises near the helicopter.
   ```
2. **If you must approach from the front, wait for the pilot to signal you and stay low, but this is only recommended on flat terrain with clear visibility. In all cases, keep one hand on your head in case you need to duck.** (70% success)
   ```
   If you must approach from the front, wait for the pilot to signal you and stay low, but this is only recommended on flat terrain with clear visibility. In all cases, keep one hand on your head in case you need to duck.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Telling people to duck under the rotor disc, but this is extremely dangerous as the main rotor can dip or the pilot may not see you; also tail rotor is invisible from the front. (95% fail)
- **** — Instructing bystanders to approach from directly behind the helicopter, which is safe only if the tail rotor is not a threat, but many helicopters have exposed tail rotors that can cause fatal injury. (85% fail)