Operational Control
Helipads at the UF Health Shands Hospital are controlled by the ShandsCair Regional Communications Center (ShandsComm).
Methods of Contact
- ShandsComm Primary – Tx: 466.625 MHz, Rx: 461.625 MHz, PL: 77.0
- Regional Med/GA-AL HEAR – Tx/Rx: 155.340 MHz, No PL/CTCSS
- Air-to-Air: 123.025 MHz AM
- ShandsComm Phone: (800) 342-5365
Helipads
- Pad 1 – North Tower
- Lighting: 24 hr, bordered in green lights. Lighted windsock on NE side.
- Capacities:
- Weight: 11,000 lbs. (5,000 kg)
- Rotor: 55 feet (16.8 m)
- Preferred Approach:
- N/NE/SE approach is recommended due to obstructions on S/SW/NW sides.
- Pad 2 – South Tower (Also serves East Tower)
- Lighting: 24 hr, bordered in green lights. Lighted windsock on NE side.
- Capacities:
- Weight: 22,000 lbs. (11,000 kg)
- Rotor: 55 feet (16.8 m)
- Preferred Approach:
- NW/W/SW/S/SE approach is recommended due to obstructions on the NE side.
Procedure
- Transient aircraft’s communications center will notify ShandsComm of inbound traffic 20 minutes prior to ETA. If flight time is less than 20 minutes, notify ShandsComm as soon as possible.
- Transient aircraft will contact ShandsComm by radio 10 minutes prior to ETA to obtain authorization to land and provide report on updated patient condition.
- ShandsComm will provide the pad assignment and relay any traffic/hazards in the area.
- It is the pilot in command’s responsibility to mitigate any hazards or safety concerns regardless of the information provided by ShandsComm.
- Transient aircraft must obtain permission prior to shutting down on the pad.
- When shut down, the pilot must remain with the aircraft or in direct contact with a security officer, in case of other inbound traffic.

