AC 61-123

Historical

Advisory circular · Announcement of Availability: Practical Test Standards (Rotorcraft); FAA-S-8081-7A, FAA-S-8081-15, and FAA-S-8081-16

Approved
March 5, 1996
Last reviewed
October 31, 2008
This change
Canceled by Memo signed by Joseph K. Tintera; dated 04/28/2005.
Family
AC 61-123 · 1 version
14 CFR parts
1

Guidance, not mandatory unless a rule or AD requires it. DRS record last changed November 21, 2025.

Show pages 25–36

FAA-S-8081-7A37

5. Required flight instructor records.

III. AREA OF OPERATION:

PREFLIGHT PREPARATION NOTE: The examiner shall select at least one TASK.

A. TASK: CERTIFICATES AND DOCUMENTS REFERENCES: FAR Parts 43, 61, 67, and 91; AC 61 -13, AC 61-23; Helicopter Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements related to certificates and documents by describing:

1. Requirements for th e issuance of pilot and flight instructor certificates and ratings, and the privileges and limitations of those certificates and ratings.

2. Medical certificates, class, duration, and how to obtain them.1

3. Airworthiness and registration certificates.

4. Helicopter handbooks and manuals.

5. Helicopter maintenance requirements and records.

B. TASK: WEATHER INFORMATION REFERENCES: AC 00-6, AC 00-45, AC 61-23, AC 61-84; AIM.

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements related to weather information by describing:

1. Importance of a thorough weather check.

2. Various sources for obtaining weather information.

3. Use of weather reports, forecasts, and charts.

4. Use of PIREP's, SIGMET's, and AIRMET's.

5. Recognition of aviation weather hazards to include wind shear.

6. Factors to be considered in making a “go/no-go” decision.

1 The flight instructor should encourage a person considering flight training to obtain an appropriate medical certificate from an Aviation Medical Examiner before training is started. In the event a person's eligibility to hold a medical certificate is questionable, the flight instructor should be aware that some physical handicaps do not always prohibit activity as pilot of an aircraft. The flight instructor should advise such a person that assistance in obtaining a medical certificate is available through the cooperation of the medical examiner and the local FAA Flight Standards District Office. However, this assistance is available only when requested specifically by the person seeking the medical certificate.

FAA-S-8081-7A 38 C. TASK: OPERATION OF SYSTEMS REFERENCES: AC 61-13; Helicopter Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements related to operation of systems, as applicable to the helicopter used for the practical test, by describing:

1. Powerplant, including controls, indicators, cooling, and fire detection.

2. Main rotor system.

3. Anti-torque system.

4. Landing gear, brakes, and steering system.

5. Fuel, oil, and hydraulic systems.

6. Electrical system.

7. Environmental system.

8. Pitot static/vacuum system and associated instruments.

9. Anti-icing systems.

10. Avionics equipment.

D. TASK: PERFORMANCE AND LIMITATIONS REFERENCES: AC 61-13, AC 61 -84, AC 91 -23; Helicopter Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements related to performance and limitations by describing:

1. Determination of weight and balance condition.

2. Use of performance charts and other data for determining performance in various phases of flight.

3. Effects of density altitude and other atmospheric conditions on performance.

4. Factors to be considered when operating within “avoid” areas of the height/velocity diagram.

5. Conditions that may cause loss of tail rotor effectiveness/ unanticipated loss of directional control.

6. Other factors to be considered in determining that required performance is within the helicopter's capabilities.

FAA-S-8081-7A39 IV. AREA OF OPERATION:

PREFLIGHT LESSON ON A MANEUVER TO BE

PERFORMED IN FLIGHT NOTE: Examiner shall select at least one maneuver from AREAS OF OPERATION VII through XII, and ask the applicant to present a preflight lesson on the selected maneuver as the lesson would be taught to a student. Previously developed lesson plans from the applicant’s library may be used.

TASK: MANEUVER LESSON REFERENCES: AC 60 -14, AC 61 -13; FAA-S-8081-15, FAA-S-8081-16; Helicopter Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits instructional knowledge of the selected maneuver by:

1. Using a lesson plan that includes all essential items to make an effective and organized presentation.

2. Stating the objective.

3. Giving an accurate, comprehensive oral description of the maneuver, including the elements and associated common errors.

4. Using instructional aids, as appropriate.

5. Describing the recognition, analysis, and correction of common errors.

FAA-S-8081-7A 40 V. AREA OF OPERATION:

PREFLIGHT PROCEDURES NOTE: The examiner shall select at least one TASK.

A. TASK: PREFLIGHT INSPECTION REFERENCES: AC 60 -14, AC 61-13; FAA-S-8081-15, FAA-S-8081-16; Helicopter Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements of a preflight inspection, as applicable to the helicopter used for the practical test, by describing—

a. reasons for the preflight inspection, items that should be inspected, and how defects are detected.

b. importance of using the appropriate checklist.

c. removal of control locks, rotor blade tie-down, and wheel chocks, if applicable.

d. determination of fuel, oil, and hydraulic fluid quantity, possible contamination and/or leaks.

e. inspection of flight controls.

f. detection of visible structural damage.

g. importance of proper loading and securing of baggage and equipment.

h. use of sound judgment in determining whether the helicopter is in condition for safe flight.

2. Exhibits instructional knowledge of common errors related to a preflight inspection by describing—

a. failure to use or improper use of checklist.

b. hazards which may result from allowing distractions to interrupt a preflight inspection.

c. inability to recognize discrepancies.

d. failure to ensure servicing with the proper fuel and oil.

3. Demonstrates and simultaneously explains a preflight inspection from an instructional standpoint.

FAA-S-8081-7A41 B. TASK: COCKPIT MANAGEMENT REFERENCES: AC 60 -14, AC 91-32; FAR Part 91;

FAA-S-8081-15, FAA-S-8081-16; Helicopter Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements of cockpit management by describing—

a. proper arranging and securing of essential materials and equipment in the cockpit.

b. proper use and/or adjustment of such cockpit items as safety belts, shoulder harnesses, anti-torque pedals, and seats.

c. occupant briefing on emergency procedures, rotor blade avoidance, and use of safety belts and shoulder harnesses.

2. Exhibits instructional knowledge of common errors related to cockpit management by describing—

a. failure to place and secure essential materials and equipment for easy access during flight.

b. improper adjustment of equipment and controls.

c. failure to brief occupants on emergency procedures, rotor blade avoidance, and use of safety belts and shoulder harnesses.

3. Demonstrates and simultaneously explains cockpit management from an instructional standpoint.

FAA-S-8081-7A 42 C. TASK: ENGINE STARTING AND ROTOR ENGAGEMENT REFERENCES: AC 60 -14, AC 61-13, AC 91- 13, AC 91-42;

FAA-S-8081-15, FAA-S-8081-16; Helicopter Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements of engine starting and rotor engagement, as appropriate to the helicopter used for the practical test, by describing—

a. safety precautions related to engine starting and rotor engagement.

b. proper positioning of helicopter to avoid hazards.

c. use of external power.

d. effect of atmospheric conditions on engine starting and rotor engagement.

e. importance of proper friction adjustment.

f. importance of following the appropriate checklist.

g. adjustment of engine and flight controls during engine start and rotor engagement.

h. prevention of undesirable helicopter movement during and after engine start and rotor engagement.

2. Exhibits instructional knowledge of common errors related to engine starting and rotor engagement by describing—

a. failure to use or improper use of checklist.

b. exceeding starter time limitations.

c. excessive engine RPM and/or temperatures during start.

d. failure to ensure adequate main rotor or tail rotor clearance.

3. Demonstrates and simultaneously explains engine starting and rotor engagement from an instructional standpoint.

FAA-S-8081-7A43 D. TASK: BEFORE TAKEOFF CHECK REFERENCES: AC 60 -14, AC 61-13; FAA-S-8081-15, FAA-S-8081-16; Helicopter Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements of the before takeoff check by describing—

a. division of attention inside and outside the cockpit.

b. importance of following the checklist and responding to each item.

c. reasons for ensuring suitable engine temperatures and pressures for run-up and takeoff.

d. method used to determine that the helicopter is in safe operating condition.

e. importance of reviewing emergency procedures.

f. method used for assuring that takeoff area or path is free of hazards.

g. method used for assuring adequate clearance from other traffic.

2. Exhibits instructional knowledge of common errors related to the before takeoff check by describing—

a. failure to use or the improper use of the checklist.

b. acceptance of marginal helicopter performance.

c. an improper check of controls.

3. Demonstrates and simultaneously explains a before takeoff check from an instructional standpoint.

4. Analyzes and corrects simulated common errors related to a before takeoff check.

FAA-S-8081-7A 44 VI. AREA OF OPERATION:

AIRPORT AND HELIPORT OPERATIONS NOTE: The examiner shall select at least one TASK.

A. TASK: RADIO COMMUNICATIONS AND ATC LIGHT

SIGNALS REFERENCES: AIM; FAA-S-8081-15, FAA-S-8081-16.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements of radio communications and ATC light signals by describing—

a. selection and use of appropriate radio frequencies.

b. recommended procedure and phraseology for radio voice communications.

c. receipt, acknowledgment of, and compliance with, ATC clearances and other instructions.

d. prescribed procedure for radio communications failure.

e. interpretation of, and compliance with, ATC light signals.

2. Exhibits instructional knowledge of common errors related to radio communications and ATC light signals by describing—

a. use of improper frequencies.

b. improper techniques and phraseologies when using radio voice communications.

c. failure to acknowledge, or properly comply with, ATC clearances and other instructions.

d. use of improper procedures for radio communications failure.

e. failure to understand, or to properly comply with, ATC light signals.

FAA-S-8081-7A45 B. TASK: TRAFFIC PATTERNS REFERENCES: AC 60 -14, AC 61 -21; FAR Part 91; AIM;

FAA-S-8081-15, FAA-S-8081-16.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements of traffic pattern operations by describing—

a. operations at controlled and uncontrolled airports and heliports.

b. adherence to traffic pattern procedures, instructions, and appropriate regulations.

c. how to maintain appropriate spacing from other traffic.

d. how to maintain desired ground track.

e. wind shear and wake turbulence.

f. orientation with landing area or heliport in use.

g. how to establish an approach to the landing area or heliport.

h. use of checklist.

2. Exhibits instructional knowledge of common errors related to traffic patterns by describing—

a. failure to comply with traffic pattern instructions, procedures, and rules.

b. improper correction for wind drift.

c. inadequate spacing from other traffic.

d. improper altitude or airspeed control.

3. Demonstrates and simultaneously explains traffic patterns from an instructional standpoint.

4. Analyzes and corrects simulated common errors related to traffic patterns.

FAA-S-8081-7A 46 C. TASK: AIRPORT AND HELIPORT MARKINGS AND

LIGHTING REFERENCES: AIM; FAA-S-8081-15, FAA-S-8081-16.

Objective. To determine that the applicant exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements of airport and heliport markings and lighting by describing:

1. Identification and proper interpretation of airport and heliport markings.

2. Identification and proper interpretation of airport and heliport lighting.

FAA-S-8081-7A47 VII. AREA OF OPERATION:

HOVERING MANEUVERS NOTE: The examiner shall select at least one TASK.

A. TASK: VERTICAL TAKEOFF AND LANDING REFERENCES: AC 60 -14, AC 61 -13; FAA-S-8081-15, FAA-S-8081-16; Helicopter Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements of a vertical takeoff and landing by describing—

a. how to establish and maintain proper RPM.

b. proper position of collective pitch, cyclic, and anti-torque pedals prior to initiating takeoff.

c. ascending vertically, at a suitable rate, to the recommended hovering altitude, in headwind, crosswind, and tailwind conditions.

d. descending vertically, at a suitable rate, to a selected touchdown point.

e. touching down vertically in headwind, crosswind, and tailwind conditions.

f. how to maintain desired heading during the maneuver.

2. Exhibits instructional knowledge of common errors related to a vertical takeoff and landing by describing—

a. improper RPM control.

b. failure to ascend and descend vertically at a suitable rate.

c. failure to recognize and correct undesirable drift.

d. improper heading control.

e. terminating takeoff at an improper altitude.

f. overcontrol of collective pitch, cyclic, or anti-torque pedals.

g. failure to reduce collective pitch to the full-down position, smoothly and positively, upon surface contact.

3. Demonstrates and simultaneously explains a vertical takeoff and landing from an instructional standpoint.

4. Analyzes and corrects simulated common errors related to a vertical takeoff and landing.

FAA-S-8081-7A 48 B. TASK: SURFACE TAXI NOTE: This TASK applies only to helicopters equipped with wheeltype landing gear.

REFERENCES: AC 60 -14, AC 61 -13; AIM; FAA-S-8081-15, FAA-S-8081-16; Helicopter Flight Manual.

Objective. To determine that the applicant:

1. Exhibits instructional knowledge of the elements of surface taxi by describing—

a. positioning of cyclic and collective to begin forward movement.

b. proper use of cyclic, collective, and brakes to control speed while taxiing.

c. use of anti-torque pedals to maintain directional control.

d. use of brakes during minimum radius turns.

e. proper position of tailwheel (if applicable), locked or unlocked.

f. positioning of controls to slow and stop helicopter.

2. Exhibits instructional knowledge of common errors related to surface taxi by describing—

a. improper positioning of cyclic and collective to start and stop movement.

b. improper use of brakes.

c. hazards of taxiing too fast.

d. improper use of anti-torque pedals.

3. Demonstrates and simultaneously explains surface taxi from an instructional standpoint.

4. Analyzes and corrects simulated common errors related to surface taxi.