Helipad Heating Project

The Challenge

The client required an upgrade to a 20-meter diameter helipad to ensure year-round safety. In winter, snow and ice build-up threatened both pilot visibility of pad markings and the safety of landing operations.

The challenge was to deliver a cost-effective and robust heating system, tailored to the pad’s design. Because of contraction joints in the surface, each quadrant needed to be heated separately—without crossing joints with cables.

Our Solution

Heatcom, via Heat Mat in the UK, engineered a bespoke cable-based ice and snow melting system.

System highlights:

• Custom-designed heating cables with extended supply leads for simplified installation
• Cable layout tailored per quadrant, avoiding contraction joints and ensuring consistent heat distribution
• Cables tied securely to reinforcement mesh, with precise spacing to achieve the target heat output
• Fully automated control system, with manual override option
• Combined temperature and moisture sensors embedded in the pad surface
  • Ensures activation only when frost or snow risk exists
  • Maximises efficiency by shutting down when conditions clear

The Result

The new helipad now operates safely even during severe winter conditions.

• Clear and visible markings maintained
• Safe landing surface guaranteed year-round
• Energy-efficient operation thanks to dual-sensor automation

This project demonstrates Heatcom’s ability to deliver tailored outdoor heating systems for critical infrastructure where safety and reliability are paramount.

Helipad-Case-2.pdf