DOCUMENT RESUME CE 000 486 Private And Commercial

GENERAL PROCEDURES FORFLIGHT TESTSThe ability of an applicant for a private orcommercial pilot certificate, or for an aircraftor instrument rating on that certificate, toperform the required pilot operations is basedon the following:1. Executing procedures and maneuverswithin the aircraft's performance capabilities and limitations, including use ofthe aircraft's systems.2. Executing emergency procedures andmaneuvers appropriate to the aircraft.3. Piloting the aircraft with smoothnessand accuracy.4. Exercising judgment.5. Applying his aeronautical knowledge.6. Showing that he is the master of theaircraft, with the successful outcome ofa procedure or maneuver never seriouslyin doubt.If the applicant fails any of the requiredpilot operations he fails the flight test. Theexaminer or the applicant may discontinuethe test at any time when the failure of arequired pilot operation makes the applicantineligible for the certificate or rating sought.If the test is discontinued the applicaint isentitled to credit for only those entire pilotoperations that he has successfully performed.5

FLIGHT TEST PREREQUISITESAn applicant for the helicopter pilot flighttest is required by revised § 61.39 of theFederal Aviation Regulations to have: (1)passed the appropriate helicopter pilot writtentestwithin 24 months before the date hetakes the flight test, (2) the applicable instruction and aeronautical experience pre-scribed for the pilot certificate he seeks, (3)at least a second-class medical certificateissued within the past 12 months for a commercial pilot or at least a third-class medicalcertificate issued within the past 24 months fora private, (4) reached at least 17 years of agefor a private or 18 years for a commercial,and (5) a written statement from an appropriately certificated and rated flight instructorcertifying that he has given the applicantflight instruction in preparation for the flighttest within 60 days preceding the date ofapplication, and finds him competent to passthe test and to have .a satisfactory knowledgeof the subject areas in which he is shown tobe deficient by his airman written test report.HELICOPTER AND EQUIPMENTREQUIREMENTS FOR FLIGHT TESTThe applicant is required by revised § 61.45to provide an airworthy helicopter for theflight test.This helicopter must be capableof, and its operating limitations must notprohibit, the performance of the pilot opera6

tions required in the test. The followingequipment is relevant to the pilot operationsrequired by revised § 61.107 for the privatepilot flight test, and by revised § 61.127 forthe commercial pilot flight test:1. Two-way radio suitable for voicecommunications with aeronautical groundstations.2. A radio receiver which can be utilizedfor available radio navigation facilities(may be the same radio used for communications) .3. Engine and flight controls that areeasily reached and operated in a normalmanner by both pilots.4. Operating instructions and limitations.The applicant should have an appropriatechecklist, an Owner's Manual/Handbook,if required by the helicopter used,FAA approved Helicopter FlightManual. Any operating limitations oror,nnother, published recommendations of themanufacturer that are applicable to thespecific helicopter will be observed.7

PILOT OPERATIONSProcedures/ManeuversI.PREFLIGHT OPERATIONSObjectiveTo determine that the applicant can ensurethat he meets pilot requirements, that thehelicopter is airworthy and ready for safeflight, and that suitable weather conditionsexist.Procedures/ManeuversA. Certificates and Documents1. DescriptionThe applicant may beasked to present his pilot and medical certifi-cates and to locate and explain theheli-copter's registration certificate, airworthinesscertificate, operating manual or FAA approvedHelicopter Flight Manual (if required),equipment list, and required weight and balance data. In addition, he may be asked toexplain helicopter, and engine logbooks orother maintenance records.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall be knowledgeable regarding the location, purpose, and significance ofeach-required item.9

B. Helicopter Performance and Limitations1. Description The applicant may beorally quizzed on the performance capabilities, and approved operating procedures andlimitations of the helicopter used. This includes power settings, placarded speeds, andfuel and oil requirements. In addition, themanufacturer's published recommendations orFAA approved Helicopter Flight Manualshould be used to determine the effects oftemperature, pressure altitude, wind, andgross weight on performance.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall obtain, explain, and applythe information which is essential in determining the performance and limitations ofthe helicopter used.C. Weight and Balance1. Description The applicant may beasked to demonstrate the application of theapproved weight and balance data for thehelicopter used to determine that the grossweight and center of gravity location arewithin limits, Charts and graphs providedby the manufacturer may be used.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall determine the emptyweight, maximum gross weight, useful load(fuel, passengers, baggage) by reference toappropriate publications. He shall be evaluated on his ability to apply this information10

to determine that the gross weight and centerof gravity are within approved limits.D. Weather Information1. Description The applicant may beasked to obtain Aviation Weather Reports,Area and Terminal Forecasts, and WindsAloft Forecasts pertinent to the proposedflight.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall demonstrate that heknows what weather information is pertinentand how to best obtain that information, andthat he can interpret and understand its significance with respect to his proposed flight.E. Line Inspection1. DescriptionThe applicant may beasked to demonstrate a visual check to determine the helicopter's airworthiness and readiness for flight. This includes all requiredequipment and documents. A checklist provided by the manufacturer or operator shouldbe used.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall use an orderly procedurein conducting a preflight check of the helicopter.He shall know the significance ofeach item checked and recognize any unsafecondition.F. Helicopter Servicing1. Description The applicant may beasked to demonstrate a visual inspection to11

determine that the fuel is of the proper gradeand type and the supply of fuel, oil, andother required fluids is adequate for theproposed flight. He should take appropriateaction to eliminate possible fuel contamination in the helicopter.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall know the grade and typeoil and fuel specified for the helicopterand be able to determine the amount of fuelrequired to complete the flight. He shallofknow where to find all fuel and oil fillers,and the capacity of each tank, as well as thelocation of the battery. He shall also knowthe proper steps for avoiding fuel contamination during and following servicing.G. Engine and Systems Preflight CheckDescription The applicant may beasked to demonstrate a check to determinethat the engine is operating within acceptablelimits and that all systems, equipment, andcontrols are functioning properly and adjusted for takeoff. A checklist provided bythe manufacturer or operator should be used.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall use proper procedures inengine starting and runup and in checkinghelicopter systems, equipment, and controlsto determine that the helicopter is ready forCareless operation in close proximityobstructions, ground personnel, or otherflight.toaircraft shall be disqualifying.12

ANDII. AIRPORTOPERATIONSTRAFFICPATTERNObjectiveTo determine that the applicant can safelyand efficiently conform to arrival and departure procedures and established trafficpatterns at controlled and noncontrolled airports, and can accomplish takeoffs and landings competently under various field andwind conditions.Procedures/ManeuversA. Radio Communication and ATC LightSignals1. Description The applicant may beasked to demonstrate the use of designatedfrequencies and recommended voice procedures to report position and state intentionsregarding the flight and to obtain , he is expected to use Airport Terminal Information Service, Airport AdvisoryService, Control Tower, Approach and Departure Control, UNICOM, and ATC lightsignals.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall determine the type ofcommunication facilities available, select cor-rect frequencies, and use appropriate communications procedures to obtain andacknowledge necessary information. Failingto comply with airport traffic procedures or13

instructions without permission to do so shallbe disqualifying.B. Airport and Heliport Markings andLighting1. DescriptionWhereavailable,theapplicant may be asked to demonstrate theproper use of wind and traffic direction indicators, and markings indicating closed runways, taxiways, holding lines, and basicrunways. He is also expected to be familiarwith taxiway and runway lighting, rotatingbeacons, and obstruction lights.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall demonstrate a knowledgeof standard wind and traffic direction indicators, markings and lighting, and how theyrelate to helicopter operation.Failure toproperly. use these aids, creating an unsafesituation, shall be disqualifying.C. Airport and Heliport Operations1. DescriptionThe applicant may beasked to demonstrate safe operating practiceswhile in close proximity to other aircraft,persons, or obstructions.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall air taxi the helicopter incompliance with local taxi rules and controltower instructions. He shall avoid turbulencegenerated by large aircraft and exercise caution when operating near small aircraft or inthe vicinity of people.14

D. Traffic Patterns1. Description The applicant may beasked to demonstrate arrival and departureprocedures which avoid the flow of fixedwingtrafficor which comply with control towerinstructions.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall apply proper correctionsfor drift, maintain adequate spacing, and adhere to prescribed altitudes and airspeeds.E. Normal and Crosswind Takeoffs froma Hover1. Description The applicant may beasked to demonstrate the transition from astabilized hover to a climb in both normaland crossswind conditions.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant's performance shall be evaluatedon the basis of his planning, smoothness,observance of traffic, and adherence to controltower instructions. Drift in excess of approximately one rotor diameter when below analtitude of 10 feet or of approximately 100feet when above an altitude of 10 feet, or usingincorrect pedal to compensate for torquechanges shall be disqualifying.F. Normal and Crosswind Approachesand Landings1. DescriptionThe applicant may beasked to demonstrate normal and crosswindapproaches and landings. The approaches15

should be flown at the normal approachangle, terminating in a stabilize hover at adesignated spot. Thereafter, the helicoptershould be Landed from a hover.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall establish and maintainthe proper approach angle, airspeed, andground track. Incorrect drift control or improper coordination shall be disqualifying.G. Maximum Performance Takeoffs andClimbs1. Description Vic; applicant may beasked to demonstrate a maximum performance takeoff from the surface. Using theavailable maximum allowable takeoff power,he should transition into forward flight andattain a steep angle of climb to clear simulated obstructionS in the flight path.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesPerformance shall be evaluated on the basisof accurate coordinated control application toachieve a smooth transition from a positionon the surface to a maximum performanceclimb. A smooth transition to a normalclimb shall be accomplished after reaching aheight of approximately 50 feet above thesurface. Abrupt, uncoordinated control application, failure to achieve maximum performance, or failure to maintain RPM in thegreen arc shall be disqualifying.NOTE: Penetration of the "height-velocity curve"during this maneuver is normal.16

H. Steep Approaches/. Description The applicant may beasked to demonstrate an approach flown atan angle steeper than for a normal approachand terminating in a stabilized hover at adesignated spot. Thereafter, the helicoptershould be landed from a hover.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shill establish and maintainthe proper steep approach angle, airspeed,and ground track. Excessive drift or faultycoordination of controls shall be disqualifying.Collision Avoidance PrecautionsI.1. DescriptionThe applicant is ex-pected to exercise conscientious and continuous surveillance of the airspace in whichthe helicopter is being operated to guardagainst potential mid-air collisions. In addition to "see and avoid" practices, he is ex, pectedtouse VFR Advisory Service atnonradar facilities, Airport Advisory Serviceat nontower airports or FSS locations, andRadar Traffic Information Service, whereavailable:2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall maintain continuousvigilance for other aircraft and take immediate actions necessary to avoid any situationwhich could result in a mid-air collision.17

Extra precautions shall be taken, particularlyin areas of congested traffic, to ensure thathis view of other aircraft is not obstructedby his helicopter's structure. When trafficadvisory service is used, the applicant shallunderstand terminology used by the radarcontroller in reporting positions of other aircraft. "Failure to maintain proper surveillance shall be disqualifying.J. Wake Turbulence Avoidance1. Description The applicant may beasked to explain how, where, and when wing-tip and rotor vortices are generated, theircharacteristics, and the associated hazards.He may also be asked to explain the recommended courses of action to avoid the effectsof wake turbulence of other aircraft and tominimize the effects of his helicopter's rotordownwash when operating in close proximityto other aircraft on the surface.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall identify the conditions andlocations in which wingtip or rotor vorticesmay be encountered and adjust his flight pathso as to avoid these areas. Failure to followrecommended procedures for minimizing thelikelihood of flying into vortices or to minimize the effects of his rotor downwash whenoperating close to small aircraft on the surfaceshall be disqualifying.18

Ill. STRAIGHT-AND-LEVEL FLIGHT,CLIMBS, DESCENTS, AND TURNSObjectiveTo determine that the applicant can competently maneuver the helicopter while dividing his attention using instrument andoutside visual references.Procedures/ManeuversA. Straight-and-Level Flight1. Description The applicant may beasked to maintain selected altitudes, headings,and airspeeds using outside references andflight instruments.This may bedemon-strated in conjunction with other maneuvers,i.e., traffic patterns.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant's performance shall be evaluated on his ability to maintain altitude,heading, and airspeed within the followingtolerances:CommercialPrivate 100 feet 10 mph 10 AltitudeAirspeedHeading 50 feet 5 mph 50B. Climbs and Descents1. Description The applicant may beasked to demonstrate climbs and descents.He should adjust power and attitude to gainor lose altitude while maintaining recommended airspeeds. During level-offs, powerand attitude should be adjusted to return thehelicopter to straight-and-level flight.19This

may be demonstrated in conjunction withother maneuvers,traffic patterns.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant's performance shall be evaluated on his ability to perform climbs anddescents while remaining within the followingtolerances:Private 100 feet 10 mph 10 CommercialLevel-off altitude 50 feetAirspeed 5 mph 50HeadingC. Turns1. DescriptionThe applicant may beasked to demonstrate turns to the left and tothe right. He should apply sufficient lateralcyclic to bank the helicopter as desired. Heshould maintain the desired bank and varypower and attitude, as necessary, to controlthe airspeed and altitude. During the rollouts from turns, power and attitude should beadjusted to return to straight-and-level flight.This may be demonstrated in conjunctionwith other maneuvers, i.e., traffic patterns.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant's 'performance shall be eval-uated on his ability to perform turns whileremaining within the following tolerances:Private 100 feet--I:10 mphCommercialAltitudeAirspeedBank 50 feet 5 mph 5 Heading on 10 roll-out2071:50

IV.NORMAL AND CROSSWIND TAKE-OFFS AND LANDINGS (Commercial)*ObjectiveTo determine that the applicant can competently execute takeoffs and landings invarious wind conditions.* This is a required pilot operation for thecommercial applicant; however, the maneuverslisted apply to both the private and the commercial pilot applicant under II. Airport andTraffic Pattern Operations.Procedures /ManeuversA. Normal and Crosswind Takeoffs froma Hover (see II, E, on page 15) .B. Normal and Crosswind Landings (seeII, F, on page 15).V. HOVERING, MANEUVERING BYGROUND REFERENCES, AND AIR TAXIINGObjectiveTo determine that the applicant can takeoff to -a hover, perform hovering turns, andfly a precision pattern at hovering altitude;and that he can precisely air and groundtaxi in compliance with local taxi rules orcontrol tower instructions.Procedures/ManeuversA. Vertical Takeoffs to a Hover1. DescriptionThe applicant may beasked to demonstrate an ascent to a stabilizedhover.21

2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall ascend smoothly to hovering altitude. He shall maintain a positionwithin a designated area, a safe altitude, andthe assigned heading within the followingtolerance:Private 10 CommercialHeading 50B. Landing from a Hover1. Description The applicant may beasked to demonstrate a landing from astabilized hover.2. Acceptable Performance GuidelinesThe applicant shall descend from hoveringaltitude and land at a designated spot with aminimum of forward and no backward orsideward movement. He shall maintain theassigned heading within the following tolerance:Private:I-- 10 CommercialHeading 5 C. Hovering TurnsI. Description The applicant may beasked to

Flight Test ' Guide, dated 1962, outlines the previous requirements. This flight test guide; AC 61-59, has been prepared by Flight Standards Service of the Federal Aviation Administration to assist the applicant and his instructor in preparing for the flight test for the Private o