A maximum performance takeoff is used to climb at a steep angle
to clear barriers in the departure flight path. To perform this
maneuver successfully a pilot must consider the wind velocity,
temperature, altitude, gross weight, center-of-gravity location,
and other factors affecting performance of the helicopter. The
textbook procedure is this: After performing a hover power check
to determine if there is sufficient power available, position
the helicopter into the wind and begin by getting the helicopter
light on the skids. Pause to neutralize all aircraft movement.
Slowly increase the collective and position the cyclic to break
ground in a 40-knot attitude. This is normally about the same
attitude as when the helicopter is light on the skids. Continue
to slowly increase the collective until the maximum power
available is reached. Keep in mind this large collective
movement requires a substantial increase in pedal movement to
maintain heading. Use the cyclic, as necessary, to control
movement toward the desi