Category: Aircraft Operations
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EASA has recently published a new Certification Specification for Flight Simulation Training Devices (CS-FSTD). This completely changes how FSTDs will be certified and, along with new aircrew and operations rules, will influence how training organisations and operators choose the right FSTD for their training needs. In this article we take a look at the new…
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Bell Helicopters recently announced the sale of the first single engine IFR-configured Bell 407 GXi in the UK. This represents a significant step forward for UK helicopter IFR operations as there is currently only one other, much older, single-engine IFR certified helicopter in the entire UK civilian fleet. The availability of capable, single-engine IFR machines…
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On some instrument approach charts there is a choice of approach minimum altitudes dependent on the climb gradient in the go around phase. In this article we look at why different gradients make a difference and how pilots can use the performance manual to select the right minimums for their approach. We focus on helicopters…
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Tucked away in the instructor regulations are a handful of rules that are, frankly, inexplicably inconsistent — leaving helicopter instructors dealing with restrictions their aeroplane counterparts never have to think about. In this article, we highlight some of the most unnecessarily restrictive rotary wing requirements and outline practical, common‑sense fixes that would bring them back…
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In both the fixed wing and rotary wing worlds, a particular qualification is required to deliver training towards issue of an initial Instrument Rating (IR) – The Instrument Rating Instructor (IRI). However, due to a quirk with the aircraft used in training for an instrument rating, creating and sustaining IRI is much more difficult in…
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In the not too distant future, provided the manufacturers can cross the certification finish line, we may see eVTOL flying around our cities and towns. To ensure the safety of 3rd parties is protected, the certification of these VTOL will need to consider what happens if something fails on the aircraft. Helicopter certification considers the…
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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…