Numerical Analysis of Helicopter Characteristics during Ditching on Calm Water

This study investigates helicopter ditching characteristics using finite-volume method (FVM) simulations with the volume of fluid (VOF) multiphase model. This study examines the key factors that affect the ditching process such as initial vertical and horizontal velocities, pitch angle, and lift. The results reveal that longitudinal pitch motion predominantly governs the helicopter’s behavior when flying over calm water. Velocity plays a critical role, with excessive horizontal forward speed amplifying water–air interactions. The initial pitch angle significantly affects vertical acceleration and peak static pressure on the helicopter surface, whereas lift helps reduce acceleration. To enhance ditching safety, vertical descent speed should be minimized, horizontal forward speed and pitch angle optimized, and lift maintained. This study offers valuable insights for the safe design of helicopters as well as emergency response strategies for helicopter ditching scenarios.