Category: Aircraft Operations
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Aviation is a complicated business, requiring complicated rules. In the field of Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) the rules for weather limits are complex but have they become too confusing, leading to mis-understanding and a normalisation of deviance? In this article we look at the current state of play for UK weather operating limits for…
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The GTN 750 and the newer GTN 750 Xi are standard equipment in many light twin helicopters. As the main interface for navigation and communications, pilots need to use it effectively. This article covers some tip and tricks to make your life easier and allow you to focus on operating the aircraft. The topics included…
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As a civilian licenced helicopter pilot, you will have undertaken numerous tests and check rides and not given a second thought to the elements an examiner has to test each time. Getting this testing and checking correct, while being fair and objective is a challenging task. However, there are some requirements in the tests and…
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There are many switches, levers and controls in a helicopter cockpit. Each has a purpose and each needs to be carefully designed to fulfil its purpose and be easy to use. However, designer also needs to consider the human factor to ensure the right control is used at the right time but is protected from…
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On many modern light twin helicopters, there is a built in training tool allows the in flight simulation of an engine failure to allow realistic but safe training. This “Training Mode” provides realistic visual and physical cues that allow pilots to experience an engine failure without the danger. Whilst they are a superb training tool,…
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Automated take offs are now a reality on commercially available helicopters including the H145, H160 and H175 with the latest Helionix software. Given pilots have successfully been taking off without such automation for years are these new systems unnecessary complexity or should they be standard fit for future helicopters? In this article we look at…
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The Norwegian Air Ambulance lead the way in Europe for expanding the scope of what helicopters can do in emergency aviation. Through the application of technology, a deep understanding of their aircraft and a full grasp of the regulations, they have developed a system the outshines UK HEMS1. In this article, we look at six…
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When the UK left the EGNOS programme on 25 June 2021, the most obvious and painful result was the withdrawal of LPV approaches in the UK. However, LPV are not the only GNSS approaches available in the PBN specification. Did leaving EGNOS lead to the removal of LNAV and LNAV/VNAV approaches too? Well no, but…
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Helicopter pilots have several options for how to fly a 2D approach operation such as an LNAV, VOR or NDB. The fixed wing world have standardised on using Continuous Descent Final Approach (CDFA) as their method of choice. Is it time for the helicopter world to follow suit? Recent changes in how the approach can…
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You might be thinking that you understand a helicopter flight manual. Some limitations, some normal and emergency procedures, a bit of performance and a perhaps a few systems descriptions? Simple? However, as soon as any optional equipment gets added to an aircraft it gets very complicated. Without a thorough understanding of how civilian flight manuals…