Aerial · SAG-AFTRA
Any production using a helicopter — for camera platform, performer transport, external mount, or aerial work near talent — is governed by Bulletin #2. The bulletin works in concert with FAA Part 91 and Part 133 (external load operations) requirements.
Context
Helicopters introduce the highest baseline risk of any equipment routinely used on production sets. Bulletin #2 codifies the separation distances between rotor disk and crew, the requirement for a dedicated aviation coordinator on every aerial production day, and the pre-flight briefing that documents exit routes and rotor-strike avoidance. The bulletin's contemporary updates address gimbal-stabilised helicopter camera platforms (which keep crew off the helicopter itself) versus traditional door-off cinematography (which requires the operator to be actively rigged into the airframe). Rotorwash, fuel hot-loading, and engine-running disembarkation are each governed by their own sub-procedures within the bulletin.
Requirements
Editorial summary of the bulletin's load-bearing requirements. The canonical PDF is the authoritative source — these are the surface points referenced in production safety briefings.
Every flight day requires a coordinator separate from the pilot, responsible for crew briefing and ground operations.
Crew is positioned outside the rotor disk envelope at all times the rotor is engaged; approach and departure paths are pre-rehearsed.
Any performer or camera rig externally mounted to the helicopter requires an FAA Part 133 certified pilot and a rigged-load briefing for all involved crew.
Fuel transfer with engines running is prohibited; the helicopter shuts down for refueling within range of crew.
Governs
Rigging glossary entries whose work is governed by this bulletin. Click through for the mechanism breakdown.
References
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