Airman Certification Standards
ACS CH.II.A
Preflight Assessment
Knowledge
Pilot self-assessment.
Determining that the helicopter to be used is in an airworthy condition.
Helicopter preflight inspection, including:
a. Which items should be inspected
b. The reasons for checking each item
c. How to detect possible defects
d. The associated regulations
Environmental factors, including weather, terrain, route selection, and obstructions.
Risk Management
Environment (e.g., weather, icing, airports/heliports/helipads/landing areas, airspace, terrain, obstacles).
External pressures.
Aviation security concerns.
Skill
Inspect the helicopter with reference to an appropriate checklist.
Verify the helicopter is in condition for safe flight and conforms to its type design.
Perform self-assessment.
Continue to assess the environment for safe flight.
Retrieved from ecfr.gov on July 17, 2026.