Table of contents:
Table of contents:
Milestone ∙ NFPA Committee ∙ Safety Impact ∙ Jeff’s Insight ∙ Client Benefits ∙ Future ∙ Commitment
At FEC Heliports, safety has always been at the core of everything we do. That’s why we’re proud to share an important milestone for our team.
Our own Jeff Sterwerf has been officially appointed to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Helicopter Facilities Committee (HHH-AAA) as a Principal member. This committee plays a critical role in shaping the standards that guide helipad and heliport safety across the country.
For us, this isn’t just recognition—it’s an opportunity to contribute directly to the future of aviation safety infrastructure.
A Milestone for FEC and the Industry
Jeff’s appointment to the NFPA Helicopter Facilities Committee represents a significant moment for FEC Heliports. The NFPA is one of the most respected organizations in developing safety standards related to fire protection, electrical systems, and aviation environments.
Being selected to serve on this Committee signals trust—trust in FEC’s engineering expertise, industry knowledge, and long-standing commitment to safe, reliable helipad design. Jeff has been part of FEC Heliports since the company’s early years and engineered the company’s first helipad project.
Over his nearly 30-year career, he has held roles including Project Engineer, Engineering Manager, and Project Manager, contributing to more than 600 helipad projects nationwide, many of them hospital rooftop applications. His background spans structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing system design, engineering oversight, fabrication coordination, and project management.
His appointment also places FEC at the table where critical decisions are made about how helicopter facilities should be designed, maintained, and improved to support safe operations. With more than 30 years in the industry, FEC is well equipped to help clients navigate evolving safety standards, complex project requirements, and the future of helicopter facility design.
What the NFPA Helicopter Facilities Committee Does
The NFPA Helicopter Facilities (HHH-AAA) committee is responsible for developing and updating standards that influence how helipads and heliports are designed and operated. These standards impact:
- Fire suppression systems
- Landing surface safety
- Operational requirements
- Emergency response readiness
- Evolving aircraft technologies
These guidelines help ensure that facilities are designed not only for performance, but for the safety of pilots, medical crews, first responders, and patients.
For organizations planning or upgrading a helipad, alignment with these standards is essential to maintaining safe, effective operations. (Explore more in our guide to helipad requirements and design considerations.)
Why This Matters for Helipad and Heliport Safety
Helicopter operations often take place in high-pressure, mission-critical environments—especially in healthcare and emergency response. Every design decision can impact safety, efficiency, and outcomes.
As standards evolve, so do the expectations for:
- Fire suppression systems
- Structural design
- Lighting and visibility
- Aircraft compatibility
Jeff’s involvement ensures that real-world experience—what actually works in the field—is part of the conversation shaping future standards.
One example currently being discussed is the transition from traditional AFFF foam systems to NFF foam suppression systems, along with new requirements for emerging aircraft like eVTOLs. These changes reflect the industry’s shift toward safer, more sustainable, and forward-thinking solutions.
Insight from Jeff Sterwerf
When asked about the appointment, Jeff shared:
“It’s an honor to know that my knowledge in this field can help contribute to the safety of flight crews and first responders.”
This perspective reflects what drives FEC every day—supporting the people who rely on these systems in real-world, high-stakes environments.
Jeff also highlighted the direct benefit for clients:
“This will give our clients the comfort to know that FEC has the expertise to continue to be a leader in this field.”
And when it comes to the future of standards:
“It allows us to bring our experience with the end user into the discussions of how future editions of the documents will be developed.”
This is what makes the appointment so meaningful—not just participation, but influence grounded in hands-on experience.
What This Means for FEC Clients and Partners
For our FEC clients, this appointment reinforces something they already value: working with a partner who understands both the technical requirements and the real-world demands of helipad operations.
Being involved in NFPA standards development means:
- Staying ahead of evolving safety criteria
- Designing with future requirements in mind
- Providing guidance aligned with industry best practices
- Bringing deeper insight into complex projects
It’s not just about meeting standards—it’s about helping shape them. That’s what FEC Heliports is all about.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Helicopter Facility Design
The aviation landscape is evolving rapidly. From advancements in fire suppression to the rise of eVTOL aircraft, helicopter facilities must adapt to new technologies and operational needs.
This evolution requires:
- Smarter, more efficient design
- Greater focus on safety and sustainability
- Flexibility for emerging aircraft types
- Continued alignment with evolving industry guidance
FEC Heliports is proud to play a role in that future—not only by designing and building helipads, but by contributing to the standards that define them.
Continuing Our Commitment to Safety and Innovation
For more than 30 years, FEC Heliports has been committed to advancing helipad and heliport design through innovation, engineering, and a deep understanding of real-world operations.
Our work has always been about more than structures—it’s about supporting the people who depend on them.
Jeff’s appointment to the NFPA Helicopter Facilities committee is a reflection of that commitment. It reinforces our role as a trusted partner in aviation safety and our dedication to continuous improvement.
We’re honored to contribute, grateful for the trust placed in us, and excited to help shape the future of helicopter facility standards for years to come.
