Flight Instructor for Rotorcraft Category Helicopter RatingFAA-S-ACS-29
Area of Operation II
Technical Subject Areas
13 Tasks
Task A Human Factors
References
AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-4, FAA-H-8083-9, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25
Objective
To determine the applicant understands personal health, flight physiology, aeromedical and human factors, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction.
Knowledge
Symptoms, recognition, causes, effects, and corrective actions associated with aeromedical and physiological issues, including:
a. Hypoxia
b. Hyperventilation
c. Middle ear and sinus problems
d. Spatial disorientation
e. Motion sickness
f. Carbon monoxide poisoning
g. Stress
h. Fatigue
i. Dehydration and nutrition
j. Hypothermia
k. Optical illusions
l. Dissolved nitrogen in the bloodstream after scuba dives
Regulations regarding use of alcohol and drugs.
Effects of alcohol, drugs, and over-the-counter medications.
Aeronautical Decision-Making (ADM) to include using Crew Resource Management (CRM) or Single- Pilot Resource Management (SRM), as appropriate.
Risk Management
Aeromedical and physiological issues.
Hazardous attitudes.
Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Confirmation and expectation bias.
Skills
Associate the symptoms and effects for at least three of the conditions listed in K1a through K1l with the cause(s) and corrective action(s).
Perform self-assessment, including fitness for flight and personal minimums, for actual flight or a scenario given by the evaluator.
Task B Visual Scanning and Collision Avoidance
References
AC 90-48; AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-4, FAA-H-8083-9, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25
Objective
To determine the applicant understands visual scanning and collision avoidance, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate pilot-in-command skills, and provide effective instruction.
Knowledge
Environmental conditions that degrade vision.
Vestibular and visual illusions.
“See and Avoid” responsibilities.
Visual scanning procedure and the importance of peripheral vision.
Aircraft blind spots and clearing procedures.
Visual cues of an impending mid-air collision.
Situations that create the greatest collision risk.
Division of attention inside and outside the aircraft.
Risk Management
Distractions to visual scanning.
Relaxed intermediate focal distance.
High volume operational environments.
Collision reaction time.
Use of a safety pilot.
Skills
Effectively scan using short regularly spaced eye movements.
Scan around physical obstructions.
Use appropriate visual scanning techniques.
Use electronic traffic alert systems, if available.
Task C Runway Incursion Avoidance
References
AC 91-73; AIM; Chart Supplements; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-4, FAA-H-8083-9, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25
Objective
To determine the applicant understands runway incursion avoidance, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction.
Knowledge
Runway incursion definition.
Taxi instructions/clearances.
The importance of recording taxi instructions and reviewing taxi routes on the airport diagram.
Airport markings, signs, and lights including the importance of hold lines associated with runways.
Appropriate flight deck activities during taxiing, including taxi route planning, briefing the location of Hot Spots, communicating and coordinating with ATC.
Communication and operational procedures at uncontrolled airports.
Risk Management
Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Confirmation or expectation bias as related to taxi instructions.
Entering or crossing runways.
Night taxi operations.
Low visibility taxi operations.
Runway incursion after landing.
Operating on taxiways between parallel runways.
Skills
Deliver instruction on the elements and techniques for runway incursion avoidance.
Task D Principles of Flight
References
FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-4, FAA-H-8083-9, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/RFM
Objective
To determine the applicant understands aerodynamics appropriate to the desired instructor certificate, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction.
Knowledge
Lift, weight, thrust, and drag.
Airfoils, including terminology, definitions, and types.
Torque effect and translating tendency.
Gyroscopic precession.
Blade flapping and coning.
Coriolis effect.
Pendular action.
Dissymmetry of lift.
Retreating blade stall.
Translational lift, including effective translational lift (ETL).
Transverse flow effect.
Aerodynamics of autorotative flight.
Rotor system characteristics.
Risk Management
The basic aerodynamic principles of flight.
Skills
Deliver instruction on principles of flight, including at least three of the elements listed K1 through K13.
Task E Flight Controls
References
FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-4, FAA-H-8083-9, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/RFM
Objective
To determine the applicant understands the flight controls on the helicopter provided for the flight test, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction.
Knowledge
Cyclic.
Collective.
Antitorque pedals.
Throttle and governor, if equipped.
Risk Management
Use of flight controls.
Uncoordinated flight.
Flight control inputs when operating too close to the ground or other obstructions.
Skills
Operate the flight controls.
Task F Operation of Systems
References
FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-4, FAA-H-8083-9, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/RFM
Objective
To determine the applicant understands systems on the helicopter provided for the flight test, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction.
Note
If K1 is selected, the evaluator assesses the applicant's knowledge of at least three sub-elements.
Knowledge
Helicopter systems, including:
a. Flight controls, trim, and if installed, stability control
b. Powerplant(s)
c. Main rotor and antitorque systems
d. Transmission and associated drive shafts
e. Fuel, oil, and hydraulic
f. Landing gear, brakes, steering, skids, or floats, as applicable
g. Avionics
h. Electrical
i. Pitot-static, vacuum/pressure, and associated flight instruments
j. Environmental
k. Anti-icing and deicing, including carburetor heat, if applicable
Indications of and procedures for managing system abnormalities or failures.
Risk Management
Detection of system malfunctions or failures.
Management of a system failure.
Monitoring and management of automated systems.
Providing instruction in unfamiliar aircraft or operating with unfamiliar flight display systems and avionics.
Skills
Operate at least three of the helicopter’s systems listed in K1a through K1k.
Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
Task G Performance and Limitations
References
FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-4, FAA-H-8083-9, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/RFM
Objective
To determine the applicant understands helicopter performance and limitations, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction
Knowledge
Elements related to performance and limitations by explaining the use of charts, tables, and data to determine performance.
Factors affecting performance, including:
a. Atmospheric conditions
b. Pilot technique
c. Airport, heliport, helipad, or unprepared surface environment
d. Loading and weight and balance
e. Helicopter configuration
Weight and balance terms, including: basic empty weight, maximum gross weight, arm, moment, reference datum, center of gravity (CG) and CG limits, and useful load.
Methods for computing longitudinal/lateral CG.
Aerodynamics.
Height/Velocity (H/V) diagram according to the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM).
Risk Management
Use of performance charts, tables, and data.
Helicopter limitations.
Possible differences between calculated performance and actual performance.
Exceeding weight limits.
Operating outside of CG limits.
Shifting, adding, and removing weight.
Retreating blade stall.
Situations that lead to loss of tail rotor/antitorque effectiveness (LTE).
Skills
Use appropriate helicopter performance charts, tables, and data.
Compute the weight and balance, correct out-of-center of gravity loading errors and determine if the weight and balance remains within limits during all phases of flight.
Task H National Airspace System
References
14 CFR parts 71, 91, 93; AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-4, FAA-H-8083-9, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25; Helicopter Route Charts; VFR Navigation Charts
Objective
To determine the applicant understands the National Airspace System, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction.
Knowledge
Airspace classes and associated requirements and limitations.
Chart symbols.
Special use airspace (SUA), special flight rules areas (SFRA), temporary flight restrictions (TFR), and other airspace areas.
Currency of publications.
Special visual flight rules (VFR) requirements.
Risk Management
Various classes and types of airspace.
Skills
Identify and comply with the requirements for basic VFR weather minimums and flying in particular classes of airspace.
Correctly identify airspace and operate in accordance with associated communication and equipment requirements.
Identify the requirements for operating in SUA or within a TFR. Identify and comply with special air traffic rules (SATR) and SFRA operations, if applicable.
Task I Navigation Systems and Radar Services
References
AC 91-78; AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-4, FAA-H-8083-9, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25
Objective
To determine the applicant understands navigation systems and radar services, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction.
Note
The evaluator should reference the manufacturer’s equipment supplement(s) as necessary for appropriate limitations, procedures, etc.
Knowledge
Ground-based navigation (identification, orientation, course determination, equipment, tests, regulations, interference, appropriate use of navigation data, and signal integrity).
Satellite-based navigation (e.g., equipment, regulations, authorized use of databases, and Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring (RAIM)).
Radar assistance to visual flight rules (VFR) aircraft (e.g., operations, equipment, available services, traffic advisories).
Transponder (Mode(s) A, C, and S) and Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B).
Risk Management
Management of automated navigation and autoflight systems.
Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Limitations of the navigation system in use.
Loss of a navigation signal.
Use of an electronic flight bag (EFB), if used.
Skills
Use an airborne electronic navigation system.
Determine the aircraft's position using the navigation system.
Intercept and track a given course, radial, or bearing.
Recognize and describe the indication of station or waypoint passage.
Use proper communication procedures when utilizing radar services.
Task J Navigation and Cross-Country Flight Planning
References
14 CFR part 91; AC 91.21-1; AIM; Chart Supplements; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-4, FAA-H-8083-9, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25; Helicopter Route Charts; NOTAMs; POH/RFM; VFR Navigation Charts
Objective
To determine the applicant understands navigation and cross-country flight planning, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction.
Note
Preparation, presentation, and explanation of a computer-generated flight plan is an acceptable option.
Knowledge
Route planning, including consideration of different classes and special use airspace (SUA) and selection of appropriate and available navigation/communication systems and facilities.
Altitude selection accounting for terrain and obstacles, autorotation requirements of the helicopter, VFR cruising altitudes, and the effect of wind.
Plotting a course.
Power setting selection.
Calculating:
a. Time, climb and descent rates, course, distance, heading, true airspeed, and groundspeed
b. Estimated time of arrival, including conversion to universal coordinated time (UTC)
c. Fuel requirements, including reserve
Elements of a VFR flight plan.
Correlate weather information to make a go/no-go decision.
Procedures for activating and closing a VFR flight plan.
Magnetic compass errors.
Pilotage and dead reckoning.
Planned calculations versus actual results and required corrections.
Diversion and lost procedures.
Inflight intercept procedures.
Use of an electronic flight bag (EFB), if used.
Chart symbols.
Risk Management
Pilot.
Aircraft.
Environment (e.g., weather, airports, airspace, terrain, obstacles, including wire strike hazards).
External pressures.
Limitations of air traffic control (ATC) services.
Fuel planning.
Skills
Prepare, present, and explain a cross-country flight plan assigned by the evaluator, including a risk analysis to the first fuel stop.
Apply pertinent information from appropriate and current aeronautical charts, Chart Supplements; Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) relative to airport/heliport/helipad/landing area, runway and taxiway closures; and other flight publications.
Create a navigation plan and simulate filing a VFR flight plan.
Recalculate fuel reserves based on a scenario provided by the evaluator.
Task K 14 CFR and Publications
References
14 CFR parts 1, 61, 91; 49 CFR part 830; AIM; Chart Supplements; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-4, FAA-H-8083-9, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/RFM
Objective
To determine the applicant understands the Code of Federal Regulations and other relevant publications, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction.
Knowledge
14 CFR parts 1, 61, and 91.
Advisory Circulars, INFOs, and SAFOs.
Airman Certification Standards or Practical Test Standards.
Pilot's Operating Handbooks or flight manuals.
Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM).
Risk Management
Use of expired charts, manuals, or publications without current updates.
Skills
Teach at least one of the elements listed in K1 through K6.
Task L Endorsements and Logbook Entries
References
14 CFR part 61; AC 61-65; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-4, FAA-H-8083-9, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25
Objective
To determine the applicant understands logbook entries and endorsements, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction.
Knowledge
Required logbook entries for instruction given.
Required student pilot pre-solo knowledge test, solo endorsements, and logbook entries.
Other required pilot logbook endorsements (e.g., touchdown autorotation, Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR)).
Preparation of a recommendation for a pilot practical test, including appropriate logbook entry and relevant certificate/rating application for:
a. Initial pilot certification
b. Additional pilot certification
c. Additional aircraft qualification
Endorsement of a pilot logbook for the satisfactory completion of an FAA flight review.
Required flight instructor records.
Flight instructor renewal and reinstatement requirements.
Risk Management
Endorsements without appropriate limitations or expiration dates.
Skills
Describe and prepare logbook entries/endorsements required for at least two of the events specified in the elements or sub-elements of K1 through K5.
Task M Night Operations
References
14 CFR part 91; AIM; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-4, FAA-H-8083-9, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/RFM
Objective
To determine the applicant understands night operations, can apply that knowledge, manage associated risks, demonstrate appropriate skills, and provide effective instruction.
Knowledge
Physiological aspects of vision related to night flying.
Lighting systems identifying airports/heliports/helipads/landing areas, runways, taxiways and obstructions, as well as pilot controlled lighting.
Helicopter equipment and lighting requirements for night operations.
Personal equipment essential for night flight.
Night orientation, navigation, chart reading techniques and methods for maintaining night vision effectiveness.
Night taxi operations.
Interpretation of traffic position and direction based solely on position lights.
Use of instruments to verify the aircraft attitude at night.
Visual illusions at night.
Appropriate use of automation, if applicable.
Risk Management
Inoperative equipment.
Weather considerations specific to night operations.
Collision hazards.
Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
Effect of visual illusions and night adaptation during all phases of night flying.
Runway incursion.
Night currency versus proficiency.
Skills
Teach at least one of the elements listed in K1 through K10.