| Abstract: | This paper describes a technique for the calculation of the probability that a helicopter can lift a specified load, or number of loads with a specified frequency distribution, in a given geographical region. This probability is computed by determining the bivariate altitude-temperature probability distribution for the specified region. The payload capability at any given temperature and altitude is calculated from standard performance equations. By integrating this over the altitude-temperature distribution, it is possible to obtain the probability distribution of payload capability, from which the required probabilities of lifting specific loads can be determined. |
