Overview
Helidecks and heliports present unique fire protection challenges due to aviation fuel hazards, limited egress routes, and often remote or elevated locations. Guspora provides NFPA 418 compliant fire protection solutions through our partnership with Buckeye Fire Equipment.
NFPA 418 Section 5.7 requires foam fire-extinguishing systems with fixed discharge outlets or hose lines for all heliport classifications. Our custom-designed foam systems and portable equipment meet these requirements for hospitals, airports, offshore platforms, and tourist facilities.
Heliport Classifications (NFPA 418)
Class 1
Largest helicopters with maximum takeoff weight >20,000 lbs
Class 2
Medium helicopters with maximum takeoff weight 6,000-20,000 lbs
Class 3
Smaller helicopters with maximum takeoff weight <6,000 lbs
Fire protection level is determined by heliport classification and the largest helicopter size to be accommodated. Agent quantities and discharge rates are specified in NFPA 418 annexes.
Common Fire Hazards
Aviation Fuel Spills
Refueling operations create high fire risk from fuel spills and vapor
Crash/Emergency Landings
Aircraft incidents can cause immediate fire requiring rapid response
Limited Egress
Elevated platforms have restricted escape routes during emergencies
Wind Conditions
Wind affects fire behavior and suppression effectiveness
Remote Locations
Offshore and remote helidecks face delayed emergency response
Recommended Buckeye Products
Foam Agents & Hardware
AFFF foam systems with fixed discharge outlets or hose lines
Custom-designed systems
Wheeled Extinguishers
Portable foam and dry chemical units for helideck deployment
Available sizes: 50 lb, 125 lb, 150 lb
Flame Detectors
UV/IR detection for rapid fire identification
Buckeye Detects
High-Flow Extinguishers
Heavy-duty portable units for immediate response
Available sizes: 20 lb, 30 lb
Applicable Codes & Standards
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| NFPA 418 | Standard for Heliports - primary governing standard |
| NFPA 11 | Standard for Low-, Medium-, and High-Expansion Foam |
| NFPA 10 | Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers |
| ICAO Annex 14 | International Civil Aviation Organization - Aerodromes |
Key Protection Considerations
- Fixed foam discharge systems or hose line systems required per NFPA 418 Section 5.7
- Fire protection level based on heliport classification and largest helicopter size
- Emergency planning and personnel training requirements
- Firefighting access points and egress routes must be clearly marked
- Refueling equipment safety provisions and grounding
- Pre-incident planning coordination with local fire services
- Offshore platform considerations for remote response
Helideck Locations We Serve
Protect Your Helideck
Contact Guspora for an NFPA 418 compliant fire protection assessment for your heliport or helideck.