Definition
A defined area at a heliport over which the final phase of the approach to a hover or landing is completed, and from which the takeoff is initiated. The FATO is the helicopter equivalent of a runway threshold area, and obstacle clearance surfaces and approach minima are referenced to it.
Plain English
The marked patch of ground at a heliport where a helicopter finishes its approach and where it lifts off when departing. It is the spot the published approach guides you to.
Context Anchor
Seen in helicopter instrument procedures and heliport descriptions, especially when an approach is made to a specific visual-flight heliport.
Why Pilots Care
Helicopter pilots use the FATO to align their approach or departure path safely and in compliance with heliport standards.
Intuition Check
Do not assume the FATO is only the exact touchdown spot. It is the larger defined area used to finish the approach and start the takeoff.
Example Sentence 1
The approach chart showed the FATO oriented north–south, so we planned our final segment to line up with that heading.
Example Sentence 2
After liftoff from the FATO, the helicopter transitioned to forward flight and climbed out.