When starting and shutting down a helicopter in high gusty winds to minimize chances of a tail boom strike, how should you park?

When starting and shutting down a helicopter in high gusty winds, parking slightly out of the wind with the cyclic into the wind is the most effective method for minimizing the risk of a tail boom strike. This approach positions the helicopter in such a way that the wind's force is mitigated, reducing the likelihood of unexpected gusts that could push the tail around.

By parking slightly out of the wind, the pilot allows the helicopter's design and aerodynamic characteristics to work to their advantage. The cyclic control adjusts the rotor system's pitch to help maintain stability and control during these critical phases of flight. This positioning also creates a buffer against strong gusts, aiding in preventing the tail from swinging excessively, which can lead to a tail boom strike against the ground or other obstacles.

Parking directly into the wind may seem intuitive, but strong gusts can create instability, and if a gust hits from the side, it could swing the tail around unpredictably. Meanwhile, resting the helicopter on the lee side of obstructions could shield it from direct wind, but it may also create turbulence or unpredictable airflow that could be just as hazardous. Therefore, the recommended practice of parking slightly out of the wind with the cyclic into the wind optimizes control and safety during operations in challenging