Floating heliport for Sydney

The directors of Newcastle Helicopters, have developed the concept of a powered flat-top vessel based on central Sydney Harbour, complete with two helipad sites and deck space to manage passenger operations.

Newcastle Helicopters says that the flexibility of a powered, mobile Heliport allows it to be centrally located, utilising the amenity of the Harbour without the need for a fixed, land-based structure.

Passengers will access the Floating Heliport by existing Harbour water taxi services and other commercial operators.

Newcastle Helicopters has been working closely with the relevant governing bodies, including the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, Roads and Maritime Services and Sydney Ports to ensure the operation is conducted in accordance with all safety and operational guidelines.

The Floating Heliport will offer swift transfers from Mascot airport and scenic flights over Sydney Harbour convenient to tourists staying close to the CBD, and those visiting with limited schedules on cruise ships.

Flights further afield will be offered to enable passengers to explore the neighbouring regions of Sydney. The Hunter Valley wine region, Port Stephens, Blue Mountains and the South, Central and North Coasts are all within an hour’s flight away from the Sydney Harbour Floating Heliport.

The assets of the floating heliport extend beyond the benefits to Sydney tourism and convenience of air transport to the CBD; it will provide closer CBD access for emergency services, and opens up many business opportunities for other air and water operators.

By mid-2013, the Sydney Harbour Floating Heliport will be a purpose-built vessel with meeting rooms, aircraft storage and re-fuelling facilities.

To view the Notice to Mariners which outlines the operating area for the heliport, click here.