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c. Performing a preflight inspection of the lifting equipment;
d. Using an approved personnel lifting device;
e. Operating the winch, including limitations and normal and emergency procedures;
f. The appropriate portions of the RLCFM;
g. Recognizing dangerous situations;
h. Recognizing the onset of hazardous oscillation of the load; and
i. Using personal safety equipment, such as helmets, gloves, and goggles.
2.3.8 Gate Complete. The completion of the Document Compliance Phase allows one to continue to the next phase (see Figure 2-4). The FSDO may end the certification process if the Document Compliance Phase has not been completed within 90 days. The completion of this gate triggers a new 90-day completion timeline for the Demonstration and Inspection Phase.
2.4 Phase 4—Demonstration and Inspection.
2.4.1 Knowledge and Skill Tests. A knowledge and skills test will be administered unless the Chief Pilot has previously passed the knowledge and skill test. The tests must have been for the same class of external load and for the same make and model of rotorcraft (§ 133.23(b) and (c)). Only in rare circumstances would the applicant’s previous experience fully satisfy the requirements of § 133.23(d).
2.4.2 Knowledge Test. Whether the ASI selects either an oral or a written knowledge test, at least the following areas will be tested:
1. The pilot will be able to describe or answer questions about procedures for preflight inspection of aircraft, attaching means, and personnel lifting devices, if appropriate.
2. The pilot will be able to conduct an accurate survey of the flight areas to be used, including the pickup site, the route, and the landing site. The pilot should indicate that the routes for the approach to and departure from each site should be over the lowest obstacle and in the direction of the prevailing wind.
3. The pilot should be able to calculate W&B with emphasis on a lateral CG. The pilot must also correctly describe how to prepare the load, check the rigging, and attach that load to the helicopter.
4. The pilot should be able to identify the different types of webbing, nylon rope, chairs, clevises, and connector links. The pilot should have a general knowledge of the weight lifting capacity and the rigging of each.
5. For Class D authorizations, the pilot should know how to operate the personnel lifting device and be aware of its limitations.
6. The pilot will have thorough knowledge and understanding of the performance capability, operating procedures, and limitations of the helicopter to be used. The
2-10 pilot should be able to calculate the adjusted gross weight performance when the temperature and/or density altitude changes.
2.4.3 Communications Test. The pilot must demonstrate an understanding of the ground crew’s hand signals, as communication between the flightcrew and ground crew is critical in ensuring the safety of persons on the ground and in the helicopter (§§ 133.23(b) and 133.37). Class D authorization requires radio communication among flight and ground crewmembers, and, if appropriate, the pilot must show that he or she is familiar with standard radio phraseology and with phraseology developed for the operation.
1. The pilot must have complete knowledge of all material in the approved RLCFM (§ 133.23(b)(5)).
2. When all the requirements are satisfied, the skill test is conducted. Because of the elaborate preparations and equipment sometimes involved in external-load operations, the ASI may conduct the skill test after failure of the knowledge portion if special circumstances make it necessary. The skill test may only be conducted at this time if the deficient knowledge area is unrelated to the skill test.
2.4.4 Skill Test. The pilot must successfully perform flight operations for the appropriate load class in the helicopter for which certification is sought (§ 133.23(c)). For the purposes of the skill demonstration, the external-load weight, including the external-load attaching means, must be the maximum weight for which authorization is sought. The ASI can elect to conduct the skill test in the helicopter with the applicant or observe from the ground.
1. For a Class A external load, the skill test will consist of the following:
a. Before lift-off, the pilot should make a check of security and proper rigging of the load.
b. The rotorcraft and load will be lifted to an appropriate hover altitude where the pilot determines if power is available for takeoff.
c. While at a hover, the pilot will demonstrate that adequate directional control is available by making heading changes of 180 degrees to each side of the proposed takeoff path.
d. The pilot will demonstrate smooth acceleration from a hover into forward climbing flight. Sufficient power, not to exceed the maximum allowable, will be applied on takeoff to ensure that the aircraft clears the tallest immediate obstacle safely.
e. The pilot will demonstrate horizontal flight at the maximum operational airspeed for the load authorization requested.
f. The pilot will demonstrate normal and steep approaches.
2. For a Class B external load, the skill test will consist of the following:
a. During preflight, the pilot will demonstrate that both electrical and manual functions of the rotorcraft attachment system operate properly.
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b. Before lift-off, the pilot should make a check of security and proper rigging of the load.
c. The pilot will demonstrate pickup of the external load. The load should be lifted slowly in a vertical ascent until the sling becomes taut and centered. The load is then lifted to an appropriate hover altitude where the pilot determines if power is available for takeoff.
d. While at a hover, the pilot will demonstrate that adequate directional control is available by making heading changes of 180 degrees to each side of the proposed takeoff path.
e. The pilot will demonstrate smooth acceleration from a hover into forward climbing flight. Sufficient power, not to exceed the maximum allowable, will be applied on takeoff to ensure that the load clears the tallest immediate obstacle safely.
f. The pilot will demonstrate horizontal flight at the airspeed for which authorization is requested. As the airspeed is increased, low-density light loads generally tend to shift further aft and may become unstable. When the load is of greater density, more compact, and better balanced, the ride is steadier and the airspeed may be safely increased. Any unstable load may flutter, oscillate, or rotate, resulting in reduced aircraft control and undue stress on the helicopter. A reduction in forward airspeed will usually allow regaining of aircraft control and steadying of the load.
If the load begins oscillating fore and aft or fluttering, it is especially important that the helicopter’s forward airspeed be reduced.
g. The pilot will maneuver the external load into the release position and release it, under normal flight conditions, using the normal and, if practicable, emergency release controls.
h. The pilot will demonstrate winch operation if a winch is used to lift the external loads. The pilot and the winch operator, if appropriate, should each operate the winch during the test. Whenever the cyclic grip switch location or function has been modified, the pilot will demonstrate the ability to actuate the switch in normal operations and simulated emergencies without having to assume an unusual finger or thumb position that may induce unwanted control input.
3. For a Class C external load, the skill test will consist of the following:
a. The pilot will make a preflight check of the electrical and mechanical functions of the rotorcraft’s attachment system.
b. The pilot will lift a portion of the load if it is to be dragged, or lift the entire load if it is ballast for a wire stringing operation.
c. The pilot will demonstrate lateral (sideward) flight with proper speed, heading control, and smoothness.
d. If the operator plans on towing (boats, barges), the pilot will demonstrate forward flight.
e. If a winch is installed, the pilot or winch operator will demonstrate its use.
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4. For Class D load authorization flight checks, the pilot will demonstrate the same maneuvers as indicated for Class B, including winch operations, if applicable. The test should include picking up a dummy load, moving this load to a predetermined area, and releasing the load under normal circumstances.
2.4.5 Rotorcraft and Equipment Inspection. (See Appendix C for more information about winches used for attaching external loads.)
1. Rotorcraft external-load attaching means must meet the requirements outlined in § 133.43(a).
2. While conducting external-load operations, the aircraft must have on board a facsimile of the approved Rotorcraft External-Load Operating Certificate (FAA Form 8430-21, Operating Certificate). This certificate constitutes a valid airworthiness certificate while the operator conducts external-load operations. It in no way invalidates the airworthiness certificate issued at certification. The facsimile, carried in the aircraft, is only valid while an external load is attached.
Note: The airworthiness certificate issued at certification must be displayed in accordance with part 91, § 91.203.
3. Each external-load attaching means must have been approved under one of the following:
• Civil Air Regulations (CAR) part 8, Aircraft Airworthiness Restricted Category, on or before January 17, 1964;
• Part 133, before February 1977;
• Part 27 or 29, as applicable, regardless of the approval date;
• Supplemental Type Certificate (STC); or
• FAA Form 337, Major Repair and Alteration (Airframe, Powerplant, Propeller, or Appliance).
4. Quick-Release Device: A quick-release device must have been approved under either of the following:
• Part 27 or 29, as applicable; or
• Part 133, before February 1, 1977.
5. Control for quick release must be installed in accordance with part 27, § 27.865. In addition, a manual mechanical control for the quick-release device must be readily accessible to either the pilot or another crewmember.
2.4.6 Operational Flight Checks (As Required by § 133.33). This flight check should be conducted while the ASI observes from the ground, unless the ASI determines observation from aboard the rotorcraft is absolutely necessary.
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1. The pilot must ensure the gross weight and CG location of the rotorcraft-load combination (RLC) is within approved limits. They should also verify the external load is securely fastened and does not interfere with devices provided for its emergency release.
2. The pilot will make an initial lift-off to verify that controllability is satisfactory.
3. The pilot will execute a 360-degree pedal turn (to the right or left, as appropriate) to verify that directional control is satisfactory while the rotorcraft is hovering.
4. The pilot should accelerate into forward flight to verify that no attitude (whether of the rotorcraft or the external load) is encountered in forward flight in which the rotorcraft is uncontrollable or which is otherwise hazardous.
5. In forward flight, check for hazardous oscillations of the external load, but if the external load is not visible to the pilot, other crewmembers or ground personnel may make this check and signal the pilot.
6. Increase the forward airspeed and determine an operational airspeed at which no hazardous oscillation or hazardous aerodynamic turbulence is encountered.
2.4.7 Initial Certification Base Inspection. For original certification, there are some items that cannot be inspected during a base inspection. For example, an applicant for a Rotorcraft External-Load Operating Certificate would not have certificate facsimiles or lists of authorized rotorcraft for examination.
2.4.8 Results of Inspections and Testing. The operator will be advised in writing of any unsatisfactory test or inspections. The unsatisfactory test or inspections should be rescheduled and repeated until satisfactory results are achieved.
2.4.9 Gate Complete. The completion of the Demonstration and Inspection Phase allows one to continue to the next phase (see Figure 2-4). The FSDO may end the certification process if the Demonstration and Inspection Phase has not been completed within 90 days. The completion of this gate triggers a new 14-day completion timeline for the Certification Phase.
2.5 Phase 5—Certification.
2.5.1 Successful Certification. When all certification requirements have been met, the FSDO will contact the Aviation Data Branch for a certificate number. The Operating Certificate expires on the last day of the 24th calendar-month after the date of issue (refer to § 133.13).
2.5.2 Web-Based Operations Safety System (WebOPSS). Authorizations were not previously issued to part 133 operators using WebOPSS; however, WebOPSS is used to provide a national standardized method for issuing regulatory authorizations (e.g., Class D or IFR).
The use of WebOPSS also puts the operator into the national database for receiving safety advisories and alerts. In accordance with §§ 133.27(b) and 133.51, a copy of the Operating Certificate and Letter of Authorization (LOA) A003, Aircraft Authorization,
2-14 must be carried aboard each rotorcraft when the rotorcraft is being used in operations conducted under this part.
2.5.3 Certificate Denial. If certification requirements are not met, the FSDO will notify the applicant in writing and provide specific reasons for the denial and cite 14 CFR sections where possible.
Figure 2-1. FAA Form 8400-6, Preapplication Statement of Intent Expiration Date: 04130/201 For Approver
PREAPPLICATION STATEMENT OF INTENT US Department of Transportation Federa Aviation Administration Paperwork Reduction Act Statement: A federal agency may not conductor sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a currently valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number for this nformation collection is 2120-0593. Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 96 hours per response, including thetime for reviewing instructions, searching existin ata sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, completing and reviawing the collection of information. All responses to this collection of information are mandatory per 14 CFR Part 119. Sen mments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of thi collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Aw SIV, 1 ashington, D C 20591, Atth: Intormation Collection Clearance Officer, ASP- 110.
Section 1A. To Be Completed By All Applicants
1. Name and mailing address of company 2. Address of principal base where operations will be conducted (do not use post office box)
3. Proposed Start-up date 4. Requested threeletter company identifier in order of preference
2.
Company Email Address Doing Business As (DBA)
5. Managem ent Personnel Name (Last, first, middle) Title Telephone (including area code) and Email Address Section 1B. To Be Completed By Air Operators
6. Proposed type of operation (check as many as applicable)
- Air Carrier Certificate • Part 121 • Passengers and Cargo • Single Pilot Operator
- Operating Certificate • Part 125 • Cargo Only • Single Pilot-in-Command Operator
• Part 133 - Scheduled Operations • Basic Part 135 Operator
• Part 135 • Nonscheduled Operations Section 1C. To Be Completed By Air Agencies
7. Proposed type of agency and rating(s)
• Part 145 Repair Station • Part 147 Maintenance Technical School
- Domestic • Airframe
• Foreign •New • Renew • Powerplant
• satellite • Bath JA inframe • Instrument
• Powerplant • Accessory _ Propeller • Specialized Service _Radio Section 1D. To Be Completed By Air Operators
8. Aircraft Data 9. Geographic area of Intended operations Numbers and types of aircraft (Include Registration if available) Number of passenger seats (by make, model, and series) argo payload capacit FAA Form 8400-6 (03-15) Supersedes Previous Edition Page 1 Electronic Version 2-15
Section 1E. To Be Completed By All Applicants
10. Additional information that provides a better understanding of the proposed operation or business (attach additional sheets, if necessary)
11. The statements and information contained on this form denote an intent to apply for FAA certification.
Signature | Date Name and Title Section 2. To Be Completed By FAA District Office Received by (district office): Precertification Number Date: Date Coordinated with AFS-620 Remarks FAA Form 8400-6 (03-15) Supersedes Previous Edition Page 2 Electronic Version 2-16
Figure 2-2. Sample FAA Form 8710-4, Rotorcraft External-Load Operator Certificate Application Form Approved: OMB No. 2120-0044 11/30/2011 US Department Federal Aviation of Transportation Rotorcraft External-Load Operator Certificate Application Administration INSTRUCTIONS: Submit this form in triplicate to local FAA District Office
1. APPLICATION FOR (CHECK APPLICABLE BOX) CERTIFICATE NO. (For amendment XTERNAL - LOAD CLAS * ORIGINAL ISSUANCE or renewal only.) UTHORIZATION (
• AMENDMENT
• RENEWAL
2. NAME AND ADDRESS OF APPLICANT (Include Zip Code) Bob Operator 858 Lift Lane, Silver Bay, MN 55044
3. PRINCIPAL OR LOCAL BASE OF OPERATIONS (Airport, City, State, and Zip Code) Duluth International Airport (KDLH) 901 Aviation Drive, Duluth, MN 55041 TELEPHONE NUMBER (202) 123-4567 TELEPHONE NUMBER
4. NAME OF CHIEF PILOT OR PILOT IN CHARGE OF LOCAL OPERATION AIRMAN GRADE NUMBER Joe P. Ilot CERTIFICATE ATP 1234567
ROTORCRAFT TO BE USED
ATTACH DEVICE
REGISTRATION NUMBER MAKE TYPE MODEL A LOAD CLASS (X) CID PREV YES APPD NO REMARKS N123VF Bell 206 X N456VE Agusta AW139
CERTIFICATION I certify that the statements made on this application form and any attachments are true and correct, and that the operations indicated on this application will be conducted within the requirements of the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 and the applicable Federal Aviation Regulations.
DATE TITLE OF AUTHORIZED OFFICER SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT OR AUTHORIZED OFFICER 05/01/2009 President FAA Form 8710-4 (11-2007) SUPERSEDES FAA FORM 8420-7 and FAA FORM 8000-32 Electronic Forms (PDF) 2-17
2-18 Figure 2-3. Sample Letter of Nomination for Designation as a Chief Pilot [Operator’s name] [Operator’s address] [Operator’s city, state, and ZIP Code] [Date] Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) [FSDO address] [FSDO city, state, and ZIP Code] Dear Inspectors:
I am writing to inform you that, as part of our application for a Rotorcraft External-Load Operating Certificate, I wish to designate the following person as Chief Pilot, with your approval:
[Name, certificate grade, and number] [Name] has accumulated over [XXXX] hours as pilot in command (PIC) of rotorcraft and most recently was employed as an external-load pilot for [name of other operator]. In this capacity, [name] flew [make and model]. [Name] completed the FAA knowledge and skill tests on [date].
All records of experience and training are available for the inspector’s review.
Sincerely, [Signature of operator] [Name] [Title] I accept this nomination for designation as Chief Pilot.
[Signature of Chief Pilot] [Name of Chief Pilot]
Figure 2-4. Certification Process Flowchart Phase 1. Application (90 days) Gate 1 Completion Requirements.
1. PASI received and Manager initiates CSOP.
2. PASI review.
Gate 1 * 4. FSDO file creation. 3. Acceptable applicant determination.
5. Application package overview.
6. Enforcement history (EIS) check.
7. Application meeting.
Phase 2. Document Compliance (90 days) Gate 2 Completion Requirements.
1. Application review.
2. Rotorcraft lease review.
Gate 2 • 3. RLCFM evaluation.
4. Chief Pilot designation and qualifications.
5. Maintenance records review (airworthiness).
6. Class D training program approval (if applicable).
Phase 3. Demonstration and Inspection (90 days) Gate 3 Completion Requirements.
1. Knowledge and skills test.
Gate 3 2. Rotorcraft and equipment inspection (airworthiness).
3. Operational flight checks.
4. Base inspection.
Task Outcomes.
Phase 4. Certification (14 days) 1. Rotorcraft External-Load Certificate issuance.
2. WebOPSS authorizations issuance.
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3-1 CHAPTER 3. OPERATING RULES AND REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Operating Rules. Title 14 CFR part 133, § 133.33(c) pertains to operational requirements and refers to the operational flight checks that each person must initially demonstrate in a manner that does not endanger persons or property on the surface. This operational flight check applies to any rotorcraft-load combination (RLC) that differs substantially from any that person has previously carried with that type of rotorcraft as described in paragraph 2.4.6 of this AC.
1. An example of Class B loads that do not differ substantially from each other is an air conditioner versus an electrical transformer. Both of these loads are non-aerodynamic and not considered substantially different.
2. An example of loads that could differ substantially is an air conditioner versus a large pane of glass or other lightweight loads. These loads are substantially different because the pane of glass can be aerodynamic under certain conditions.
Note: When the loads differ substantially, a flight characteristics check may also be required in accordance with § 133.41.
3.2 Congested Area Operations.
3.2.1 Requirements for Congested Area Operations. Section 133.33(d) establishes the requirements for conducting external-load operations over congested areas. Each operation is required to be conducted under a plan that must be approved by the responsible Flight Standards office for the area in which the operation is to be conducted.
It is not intended that a separate plan be required for each flight. One plan will suffice for an operation that might require several flights to complete. Each plan should provide sufficient information for a thorough evaluation of all safety matters. A chart depicting flight routes and altitudes should be included in each operating plan. Aeronautical charts may be used if the scale and detail is sufficient for evaluation purposes. Past experience has shown that city maps distributed by oil companies are excellent for congested area operating plans. Lack of adequate charts may make it necessary to use a hand-drawn chart to identify routes over city streets, railroad tracks, riverbeds, etc. In order that each congested area operating plan may be properly evaluated, it should be submitted at least 5 business-days in advance of the proposed operation to the responsible office.
3.2.2 Restricted Category Helicopter Considerations. Section 133.45(d) states, “No person may conduct an external-load operation under this part with a rotorcraft type certificated in the restricted category under § 21.25 over a densely populated area, in a congested airway, or near a busy airport where passenger transport operations are conducted.” The following considerations should be clearly understood by restricted category helicopter operators:
1. During the development of part 133, it was necessary to consider the application of the minimum safe altitude rules of 14 CFR part 91, § 91.119 as they would apply to flight operations over congested areas. Specifically, it was necessary to provide exceptions for external-load operations over both congested areas and other than congested areas. The first was accomplished in § 133.33(d), which authorizes