Private Pilot for Rotorcraft Category Helicopter RatingFAA-S-ACS-15
Area of Operation II
Preflight Procedures
4 Tasks
Task A Preflight Assessment
References
AC 91-32; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/RFM
Objective
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with preparation for safe flight.
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
Pilot.
Aircraft.
Environment (e.g., weather, icing, airports/heliports/helipads/landing areas, airspace, terrain, obstacles).
External pressures.
Aviation security concerns.
Skills
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.
Task B Flight Deck Management
References
14 CFR part 91; FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/RFM
Objective
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with flight deck management practices.
Note
See Appendix 2: Safety of Flight.
Knowledge
Passenger briefing requirements, including operation and required use of safety restraint systems.
Use of appropriate checklists.
Requirements for current and appropriate navigation data.
Securing items and cargo.
Risk Management
Use of systems or equipment, including automation and portable electronic devices.
Inoperative equipment.
Passenger distractions.
Skills
Secure all items in the aircraft.
Conduct an appropriate passenger briefing, including identifying the pilot-in-command (PIC), use of safety belts, shoulder harnesses, doors, passenger conduct, rotor blade avoidance, and emergency procedures.
Properly program and manage helicopter automation, as applicable.
Appropriately manage risks by utilizing ADM, including SRM/CRM.
Task C Powerplant Starting and Rotor Engagement
References
FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/RFM
Objective
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with recommended powerplant starting and rotor engagement procedures.
Knowledge
Starting under various conditions.
Starting procedures, including the use of external power if applicable.
Limitations associated with starting.
Conditions leading to and procedures for an aborted start.
Risk Management
Rotor engagement, if applicable.
Use of external power unit.
Limitations during starting.
Skills
Position the helicopter properly considering structures, surface conditions, other aircraft, wind, and the safety of nearby persons and property.
Use flight control frictions, if required.
Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
Engage and manage the rotor system, as appropriate.
Task D Before Takeoff Check
References
FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-21, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/RFM
Objective
To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with before takeoff check.
Knowledge
Purpose of before takeoff checklist items, including:
a. Reasons for checking each item
b. Detecting malfunctions
c. Configuring the helicopter as recommended by the manufacturer
Risk Management
Division of attention while conducting before takeoff checks.
Unexpected or unclear clearances from ATC.
Skills
Complete the appropriate checklist(s).
Review takeoff performance and emergency procedures.
Verify that the powerplant temperature(s) and pressure(s) are suitable for takeoff.
Maintain powerplant and main rotor (Nr) speed within normal limits.
Divide attention inside and outside the helicopter.