Air Kauai Helicopter Tours Training Program Manual

Air Kauai Helicopter Tours Training Program Manual
Welcome to the Aris Nevada, Inc. dba Air Kauai Helicopter Tours Training Program Manual. This comprehensive guide outlines our FAA-approved training curricula for pilots operating under 14 CFR Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate 9L1A308O. The manual provides detailed instruction for initial, recurrent, and requalification training to ensure the highest standards of safety and professionalism in our helicopter tour operations.
SS
by Steven Schaefer
 
Manual Purpose and Introduction
Training Guidance
This program has been compiled for the use and guidance of Aris Nevada, Inc. employees as they conduct pilot training for Part 135 and Part 136 operations.
Regulatory Compliance
Compliance with the guidelines listed in this manual is mandatory for company instructors, check airmen, and pilots whenever training is conducted for commercial operations.
Approved Program
This program is the Aris Nevada, Inc. approved Training Program with FAA Initial Approval effective from 4/10/2025 to 4/10/2027.
Manual Composition
1
Core Sections
The manual contains 8 sections covering Introduction, Initial New-Hire Training, Recurrent Training, Requalification Training, Transition Training, Differences Training, Subject Modules, and Flight Maneuvers.
2
Specialized Appendices
Six appendices address Special Training for 14 CFR Part 136/HATCPM, the HATCPM document, Check Airman Training, Company Flight Instructor Training, Authorized Personnel, and Company Recordkeeping Forms.
3
Comprehensive Coverage
Together, these components provide a complete framework for all training activities required for Air Kauai Helicopter Tours operations, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations.
General Training Areas and Facilities
Ground Instruction
General training areas for ground instruction will be conducted in the Aris Nevada, Inc. office meeting room, located at Air Kauai Helicopter Tours, Lihue Airport, HI.
Individual Instruction
Classroom training areas and facilities used for individual instruction will be the pilot meeting room at the Aris Nevada, Inc. office.
Flight Training Personnel
A single flight instructor and a single Check Airman will suffice to cover the minimum needs of company training and qualifications.
Reference Library
The company shall provide current and appropriate study and resource materials for use by each required crew. These materials form the foundation of our training program and ensure pilots have access to the latest regulatory and operational information.
Key Reference Materials
Company Documents
Company General Operations Manual
Appropriate Rotorcraft Flight Manuals for AS350B2/R44II
FAA Publications
Aeronautical Information Manual
14 CFR Applicable Parts
FAA Handbooks (Weight & Balance, Risk Management, etc.)
Advisory Circulars
AC 00-46F Aviation Safety Reporting Program
AC 90-48E Pilot's Role in Collision Avoidance
AC 120-51E Crew Resource Management Training
Training Program Definitions
Curriculum
A complete training agenda specific to an aircraft type and duty position, consisting of several curriculum segments.
Curriculum Segment
An area of knowledge within a curriculum. One or more curriculum segments are required to create a curriculum.
Subject Module
An outline of related material that will be presented in a lesson plan, itemizing the subject matter in a curriculum segment.
Eligibility Period
The three calendar months during which a crewmember must receive recurrent training and a flight check to remain qualified.
Training Categories
Qualification
Final validation of proficiency
Recurrent & Requalification
Maintaining and restoring qualifications
Initial New Hire
Foundation of pilot training
The training program is structured in progressive categories, beginning with Initial New Hire Training for all pilots. Those who remain employed proceed to Recurrent Training, while pilots who miss recurrent training enter Requalification. Each category contains specific curriculum segments tailored to the pilot's experience level and training needs.
Initial New Hire Training Definition
New Personnel
This category is for personnel who have had no previous experience with Aris Nevada, Inc. (newly hired personnel).
New Position
It also applies to personnel who have not previously held a crewmember duty position with Aris Nevada, Inc.
Comprehensive Training
Initial New Hire training includes Basic Indoctrination and training for PIC duty on a specific type of helicopter.
Initial New Hire Training Objectives
Aircraft Proficiency
Ensures that the pilot is adequately trained and proficient to act as PIC in one make and model of helicopter (AS350B2 or R44II).
Company Procedures
Ensures that the pilot is familiar with the policies and procedures of Aris Nevada, Inc. in Part 135 operations.
Regulatory Compliance
Ensures the pilot is familiar with and trained according to all of the requirements of 14 CFR for commercial helicopter operations.
Initial New Hire Minimum Hour Requirements
16:00
Basic Indoctrination
Company and airman-specific training
4:00
General Emergency
Emergency procedures training
16:00
Aircraft Ground
Systems and operations training
4:00
Flight Training
Hands-on aircraft instruction
Additional requirements include 2:00 hours of Hazardous Materials training, 2:00 hours of Crew Resource Management, Part 136 Training as required, and Qualification as required. The total minimum training time is 44:00 hours.
Basic Indoctrination Curriculum Segment
Operator Specific
Duties and Responsibilities of Flight Crewmembers
Appropriate Provisions of Title 14 CFR
Contents of Operations Manual and Certificate
FAA Mandated Drug/Alcohol Testing Program
Operations Specifications - Aircraft Authorizations
Airman Specific
Operational Control and Flight Locating Procedures
Weight and Balance Principles
Meteorology and Weather Information
Navigation and Airspace Procedures
Emergency Training and Communications
Aircraft Performance and Airport Analysis
General Emergency Training Curriculum Segment
Emergency Situation Training
Includes pilot duties, crew coordination, aircraft fires, first aid, illness/injury, ground evacuation, ditching procedures, accident reviews, pilot incapacitation, and unusual situations.
Emergency Drill Training
Hands-on practice with hand-held fire extinguishers, emergency exits specific to AS350B2/R44II, and personal flotation devices.
Testing Requirements
Written examination to verify comprehension of emergency procedures and protocols for various emergency scenarios.
Aircraft Ground Training Curriculum Segment
General Operational Subjects
Weight and balance, flight techniques in adverse weather, and aircraft performance characteristics
Aircraft Systems
Detailed study of all major aircraft systems including powerplant, rotor systems, electrical, hydraulics, and fuel management
Systems Integration
Use of checklists, flight planning procedures, and cockpit familiarization
4
4
SFAR 73 Training
Special Federal Aviation Regulation training specific to R44II operations
Flight Training Curriculum Segment
Preparation and Surface Operations
Preflight procedures, engine start, hovering, and ground maneuvers
Flight Maneuvers
Takeoffs, climbs, en route procedures, descents, approaches, and landings
Emergency Procedures
Systems procedures training for normal, abnormal, and emergency situations
The primary objective is to provide pilots with the opportunity to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to perform to the required standard. This includes demonstration, instruction, and practice of maneuvers and procedures pertinent to the AS350B2/R44II helicopter and PIC duties.
Hazardous Materials Training
Identification Procedures
Training on recognizing hazardous materials and understanding the procedures for identifying them before they are transported on company aircraft.
Prevention Protocols
Learning the precautions required to prevent hazardous materials transportation on company helicopters and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Emergency Response
Procedures to follow if hazardous materials are inadvertently shipped or if there is an accident involving these materials during flight operations.
Reference material for this curriculum segment is the Aris Nevada, Inc. Hazardous Materials Operations Manual and Training Program, a stand-alone document that is approved separately. The minimum requirement is 2 hours of training.
Qualification Curriculum Segment
1
Proficiency Validation
Ensures each pilot has reached an acceptable level of proficiency before release from training
Program Evaluation
Provides means for measuring training effectiveness
Deficiency Correction
Identifies and addresses training gaps
Satisfactory completion of ground training requires correctly answering a minimum 70% of written test questions and successfully demonstrating knowledge during the oral examination. Flight training must be completed according to the standards in this program, with the pilot demonstrating mastery of the aircraft with successful outcomes never in doubt.
Testing and Checking Requirements
1
Complete Curriculum
Each crewmember required to train under a curriculum must complete the curriculum in its entirety before qualification.
2
Written Examinations
Ground training completion requires correctly answering a minimum 70% of test questions, with deficient areas reviewed until satisfactory.
3
Flight Proficiency
Flight training must demonstrate commercial-level skills with the pilot showing clear mastery of the aircraft in all required maneuvers.
4
Check Rides
Successful completion of required check rides including 135.293(a) and (b) competency checks and 135.299 line checks.
Recurrent Training Definition
Qualification Maintenance
Training for personnel who have been trained and qualified by Aris Nevada, Inc. and will continue to serve as PIC in the same type of helicopter.
Currency Requirements
Training and checking within an appropriate eligibility period to maintain currency in assigned aircraft and duties.
Proficiency Focus
Ensures the pilot remains adequately trained and currently proficient to act as PIC in the assigned helicopter model.
Recurrent Training Objectives
Knowledge Review
Recurrent Ground Training (RGT) includes a review to determine the pilot's knowledge of the assigned helicopter and PIC duties and responsibilities.
It also provides instruction as necessary in the subjects required for Initial New Hire ground training including General Emergency Training.
Skills Maintenance
Recurrent Flight Training ensures pilots maintain proficiency in all required flight maneuvers and procedures for their assigned aircraft.
A pilot may complete training without the specified number of hours if they successfully complete all required training events and an instructor recommends the flight test.
Recurrent Training Prerequisites
Current Qualification
A pilot must be currently qualified and within the eligibility period in the AS350B2/R44II.
Aircraft Specificity
R44II recurrent training must be flown in an R44II helicopter to maintain qualification.
SFAR 73 Endorsement
For R44II operations, the pilot must have a valid R44 SFAR 73 PIC Endorsement.
Recurrent Training Minimum Hour Requirements
*Flight Training requires at least 50% of Initial New Hire hours and not less than 1.0 hour. The curriculum segments for Recurrent Training mirror those of Initial New Hire but with reduced hourly requirements reflecting the pilot's existing knowledge and experience.
Requalification Training Definition
Qualification Restoration
Training for personnel who have been trained and qualified by Aris Nevada, Inc., but have become unqualified to serve as PIC on a particular type of helicopter.
Previously Qualified
Applies to pilots who have previously completed training with the company but have lost qualification status for various reasons.
Targeted Training
Specifically designed to restore a previously qualified crewmember to a qualified status through appropriate curriculum segments.
Requalification Training Objectives
Crewmembers meet requalification training objectives by completing a combination of aircraft ground, flight, and qualification curriculum segments, as applicable. The specific training needed is determined by the reasons for, and the length of, the crewmember's unqualified status.
3
Currency Restoration
May be as simple as re-accomplishing specific currency events like landings
Proficiency Recovery
Targeted training to address specific areas of deficiency
3
Complete Retraining
May require full Initial New Hire curriculum for extended qualification lapses
Reasons for Losing Qualification
Noncurrent Status
Failure to accomplish all recency of experience requirements required by regulations when due, such as the required number of takeoffs and landings.
Disqualified Status
Failure of a check ride, which may result in a pilot being qualified in one helicopter type but unqualified in another.
Overdue Status
Failure to complete recurrent training within the eligibility period established by the regulations.
Correcting Noncurrent Status
Recency-of-Experience Requirements
A PIC who has become unqualified due to failure to accomplish required landings may requalify by completing a recency-of-experience event consisting of three takeoffs and three landings, each separated by an en route phase of flight.
These landings do not require supervision by an instructor or check airman. However, if an instructor or check airman is not present, the flight to re-establish currency must not include passengers per 14 CFR Part 61.57(2).
Documentation Requirements
The PIC must record the completion of the required landings in the company duty logs and notify the Chief Pilot of their updated status.
According to the Aris Nevada, Inc. General Operations Manual, each PIC is responsible for recording duty hours and flight times in the company duty log, including takeoffs and landings. Each PIC must be aware of their Currency Status, and no pilot may accept a duty assignment while in a "Noncurrent" Status.
Correcting Disqualified Status
Enter Requalification
A flight crewmember that fails a required check must be entered into requalification training.
Remedial Training
Training must include at least the remedial instruction required to restore competence in failed events, plus additional training to strengthen overall performance.
3
Instructor Certification
The instructor conducting this training must certify the crewmember's proficiency before retaking the check ride.
4
Qualification Completion
The Qualification Curriculum Segment shall consist of the appropriate competency checks (135.293) and line checks (135.299).
Correcting Overdue Status
RGT = Recurrent Ground Training, RFT = Recurrent Flight Training, CC = Competency Check, LC = Line Check. The minimum training required is determined by how long the crewmember has been unqualified.
Transition and Differences Training
Transition Training
This category is intended for crewmembers who are currently qualified and serve as PIC in one type of helicopter and are being assigned PIC duties on a different type of helicopter.
Currently, Aris Nevada, Inc. does not offer transition training. Therefore, this category of training is not applicable at this time and is reserved for future development as necessary.
Differences Training
This category is intended for crewmembers who are currently qualified and serve as PIC on a particular make and model of helicopter and are further assigned to serve as PIC on another model of the same helicopter.
Currently, Aris Nevada, Inc. does not fly different models of the same make of helicopter. Therefore, this category is not applicable at this time and is reserved for future development as necessary.
Subject Modules Overview
Basic Indoctrination
Modules 1-16 covering company procedures, regulations, and fundamental aviation knowledge
2
2
Emergency Training
Modules 17-29 covering emergency situations, procedures, and hands-on drills
3
3
Aircraft Ground
Modules 30-55 covering aircraft systems, operations, and technical knowledge
Flight Training
Modules 56-70 covering actual flight operations and maneuvers
The Subject Modules form the building blocks of each curriculum segment. They provide detailed outlines of the material to be covered in each training area, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all required knowledge and skills.
Basic Indoctrination - Operator Specific Modules
1
Duties and Responsibilities
Ensures the crewmember has a working knowledge of the duties and responsibilities of a commercial pilot engaged in Part 135 flight operations for Aris Nevada, Inc.
2
Title 14 CFR Provisions
Provides working knowledge of the appropriate provisions of 14 CFR Part 135 and related regulations governing commercial operations.
3
Operations Manual and Certificate
Ensures familiarity with the Aris Nevada, Inc. General Operations Manual and Operating Certificate requirements.
4
Drug/Alcohol Testing Program
Covers the FAA Mandated Drug/Alcohol Testing Program and the Employee Assistance Program.
Basic Indoctrination - Airman Specific Modules
Airman Specific modules include: Operational Control and Flight Locating Procedures; Weight and Balance Principles; Meteorology; Weather Information and Trends; Navigation; Airspace and ATC Procedures; Charting and Flight Planning; Airport Operations; Communication Procedures; Emergency Training; and Aircraft Performance and Airport Analysis. These modules ensure pilots have the fundamental knowledge required for commercial helicopter operations.
General Emergency Training Modules
Emergency Situation Training
Pilot Duties and Responsibilities
Crew Coordination and Communications
Aircraft Fires
First Aid Equipment
Illness, Injury, and Basic First Aid
Ground Evacuation
Ditching Procedures
Previous Aircraft Accidents/Incidents
Pilot Incapacitation
Hijacking and Other Unusual Situations
Emergency Drill Training
Hands-on training with emergency equipment is required every 24 months. During alternate 12-month periods, training may be accomplished by pictorial presentation or discussion/demonstration.
Hand-Held Fire Extinguishers
Emergency Exits (Aircraft Specific)
Personal Flotation Devices
Aircraft Ground Training - General Operational Subjects
Weight and Balance
Procedures specific to AS350B2/R44II, including computation of company weight and balance forms, both computerized and manual.
Flight Operations
Dispatch, flight control and release, flight locating procedures, and operation of aircraft communications and navigation equipment.
Adverse Weather Techniques
Training on vertigo, spatial disorientation, fog, turbulence, low visibility, icing, thunderstorms, and operations in flat light, white out, and brown out conditions.
Aircraft Ground Training - Aircraft Systems
1
1
General Description
Dimensions, panel layouts, cockpit configurations, and major systems
Powerplant
Engine components, ignition, oil, fuel control, and related systems
Drive Train & Rotors
Main and tail rotors, drive shafts, gearboxes, and related components
Flight Controls
Primary and secondary controls, hydraulic systems, and electrical systems
Aircraft Systems Training - AS350B2 Specifics
Powerplant
Accessory Drives
Ignition
Oil
Fuel Control
Bleed Air Features
Hydraulic System
Hydraulic reservoirs
Pumps
Accumulators
Hydraulic cut-off switch (Collective)
Hydraulic test switch (Pedestal)
Warning Systems
Aural Warnings (Low/High RPM, Hydraulic)
Visual Warning Lights (16 different indicators)
Emergency response procedures
Aircraft Systems Training - R44II Specifics
Powerplant
Ignition/Magnetos
Oil System
Fuel Injection System
Starter
Alternator
Engine RPM Governor
Hydraulic System
Hydraulic reservoir
Pump
Fluid routing
Hydraulic switch (Cyclic)
Flight controls/Linkages
Warning Systems
Aural Warnings (Low/High RPM)
Visual Warning Lights (16 different indicators)
Clutch actuator and belt system
SFAR 73 R44II Training Requirements
Ground Training
Must cover energy management, mast bumping, low rotor RPM and rotor stall, low-G conditions and recovery procedures, and rotor RPM decay.
Flight Training
Must include autorotation procedures and energy management, autorotations at proper entry altitude, engine rotor RPM control without governor, and low rotor RPM recognition and recovery.
Endorsement Requirements
Training must be conducted by an SFAR 73 endorsed flight instructor specifically in an R44II helicopter, with proper endorsements documented.
Currency Requirements
Flight reviews must be taken in an R44II to be valid for R44II operations, and currency to carry passengers must be accomplished in an R44II.
Flight Training Modules
1
Preparation (Module 56)
Preflight procedures, checklists, aircraft inspection, and documentation verification
2
Surface Operations (Module 57)
Engine start, hovering, turns, sideward/rearward movement, slope operations
3
Flight Operations (Modules 58-64)
Takeoffs, climbs, en route procedures, descents, approaches, landings, after-landing
4
Special & Emergency Procedures (Modules 65-70)
Off-airport operations, systems procedures, mountain flying, whiteout/brownout recovery
Flight Maneuvers - Basic Maneuvers
Hover Operations
Lift to hover, vertical landing from a hover, hovering turns, and sideward/rearward flight.
Takeoffs and Landings
Normal and crosswind takeoffs and landings, running landings, shallow approaches, and rapid decelerations or quick stops.
Off-Airport Operations
Confined area operations, steep approaches, pinnacle/rooftop operations, slope operations, and rejected or balked landings.
Each maneuver has specific performance standards that must be met during training and checking. The pilot must demonstrate commercial-level skills and knowledge, showing clear mastery of the aircraft with successful outcomes never in doubt.
Flight Maneuvers - Emergency Procedures
Engine Failures
Engine failure in a hover and engine failure in flight leading to autorotation (specific procedures for AS350B2 and R44II)
2
Tail Rotor Issues
Tail rotor failure in a hover, tail rotor failure in flight, and loss of tail rotor effectiveness (LTE)
Flight Control Problems
Vortex ring state, hydraulic failure, and inadvertent IMC recovery
Environmental Challenges
Brownout/whiteout/flat light operations and recovery techniques
Qualification Process
1
3
1
Written Examinations
Minimum 70% correct answers required
Oral Examinations
Demonstrating knowledge of regulations, policies, and procedures
3
Flight Proficiency Checks
Demonstrating mastery of required maneuvers and procedures
If a pilot fails to complete the Qualification Curriculum Segment due to lack of proficiency or knowledge, they must be enrolled in Requalification Training. Aris Nevada, Inc. check airmen will immediately notify the FAA Principal Operations Inspector of any proficiency check failure. The pilot returns to training status for additional instruction until proficiency is regained.
Pilot Records Database Requirements
PRD Access Requirement
No pilot may act as PIC until they have granted access to the Director of Operations for PRD review to include all required records.
Required Records
Records include drug and alcohol testing, training and qualification, disciplinary actions, employment separation, motor vehicle records, and date of hire.
Reporting Timeline
All new PRD entries shall be made by the DO, with records reported within 30 days of the effective date or when records become final.
Protected Information
No person shall report any pilot record that is part of an approved Voluntary Safety Reporting Program protected under 14 CFR Part 193.
Training Manual Revision Process
Revision Creation
Revisions are prepared with new date and number
FAA Approval
Revisions must receive FAA approval
Distribution
Approved revisions issued to all manual holders
Implementation
Manual holders update their copies and return confirmation
Each revision includes a "Revision Letter" with specific instructions for implementation. The codes used are: R = Remove and Replace, D = Delete and Destroy, and N = Insert a new page. The Chief Pilot is responsible for ensuring all revision confirmations are returned promptly.
Hawaii Air Tour Common Procedures
Special Training Curriculum
Appendix A addresses the Special Training Curriculum for 14 CFR Part 136/HATCPM, providing comprehensive guidance for air tour operations in Hawaii.
HATCPM Document
Appendix B references the Hawaii Air Tour Common Procedures Manual as a stand-alone document that provides detailed procedures specific to Hawaiian air tour operations.
Training Requirements
Includes initial, recurrent, and requalification training specific to Part 136 operations, with ground instruction, flight instruction, and qualification segments.
Check Airman and Flight Instructor Training
Check Airman Training
Appendix C addresses the Training Curriculum for Company Check Airmen, including definition, objectives, prerequisites, minimum hour requirements, and curriculum segments for ground instruction, flight instruction, and qualification.
Check Airmen are responsible for conducting required flight checks and evaluating pilot proficiency according to FAA standards.
Flight Instructor Training
Appendix D addresses the Training Curriculum for Company Flight Instructors, with similar components tailored to the instructional role.
Flight Instructors are responsible for delivering ground and flight training to company pilots, ensuring they meet all training requirements before proceeding to qualification checks.
Company Recordkeeping Forms
Appendix F contains copies of all approved Company Training forms, including 135.63 Recordkeeping Requirements, Assignment of Responsibility, Categories of Records, Distribution Control Log, Revision Letter Form, Part 135 Flight Training Record, various Certificates of Completion, Training Completion Record, Ground Instruction Attendance Record, Competency/Proficiency Check forms, and more.
Crew Resource Management Training
Team Coordination
Training in effective communication and coordination between flight crew, ground personnel, and passengers.
Communication Skills
Development of clear, concise communication techniques for normal and emergency situations.
Workload Management
Strategies for prioritizing tasks and managing resources effectively during flight operations.
Decision Making
Techniques for sound aeronautical decision making under various operational conditions.
Appendix G outlines the Crew Resource Management curriculum, including Initial/Recurrent CRM Training. This training is essential for developing the non-technical skills that complement pilots' technical abilities and enhance overall flight safety.
Aircraft Performance and Limitations
Understanding aircraft performance limitations is critical for safe operations. Pilots must be thoroughly familiar with the performance characteristics of both the AS350B2 and R44II helicopters, including weight and balance considerations, hover capabilities, and environmental limitations.
Emergency Equipment and Procedures
Required Emergency Equipment
Each aircraft must carry a fire extinguisher, first aid kit, emergency locator transmitter (ELT), and personal flotation devices when operating over water. Pilots must be familiar with the location, inspection requirements, and operation of all emergency equipment.
Emergency Exits
Pilots must be familiar with the operation of all aircraft exits in both normal and emergency configurations. Emergency exit training includes actual operation of each exit and passenger evacuation procedures.
Flotation Systems
For the AS350B2 equipped with flotation systems, pilots must understand deployment procedures, activation methods, and post-ditching protocols to ensure passenger safety during water landings.
Hazardous Materials Training
Identification
Recognizing hazardous materials through markings, labels, and shipping documents
Prevention
Procedures to prevent unauthorized transport of hazardous materials
3
3
Emergency Response
Actions to take if hazardous materials are discovered in flight
4
4
Documentation
Proper reporting and record-keeping requirements
Reference material for this curriculum segment is the Aris Nevada, Inc. Hazardous Materials Operations Manual and Training Program, a stand-alone document that is approved separately. Initial training requires 2 hours, while recurrent training requires 1 hour every 24 months.
Mountain Flying and High Density-Altitude Operations
Terrain Considerations
Understanding mountain wave turbulence, updrafts, downdrafts, and wind patterns around mountainous terrain.
Density Altitude Effects
Recognizing reduced aircraft performance at high density altitudes due to combinations of altitude, temperature, and humidity.
Route Planning
Selecting appropriate routes through mountainous terrain with consideration for escape routes and forced landing areas.
Wind Assessment
Techniques for evaluating wind direction and velocity using visual cues in mountainous environments.
Whiteout, Brownout, and Flat Light Operations
Whiteout Conditions
Whiteout occurs in snowy environments when sunlight is diffused through clouds and reflects off snow, eliminating shadows and depth perception. Pilots must recognize these conditions and use proper techniques to maintain spatial orientation.
Brownout Conditions
Brownout occurs when rotor downwash creates a cloud of dust, sand, or dirt that obscures visibility during takeoff or landing. Pilots must use proper approach techniques and reference instruments to maintain control.
Flat Light Conditions
Flat light is an optical illusion where contrast is reduced between terrain features, making it difficult to judge distance and identify terrain features. Pilots must recognize these conditions and use alternative reference points for safe navigation.
Weight and Balance Procedures
Calculation Methods
Pilots must be proficient in both manual and computer-based weight and balance calculations for the AS350B2 and R44II. This includes understanding basic principles like zero-fuel weight, moments, and center of gravity limitations.
Loading Procedures
Proper loading procedures must be followed to ensure the helicopter remains within center of gravity limits throughout the flight. This includes accounting for passenger seating arrangements and baggage placement.
Operational Considerations
Pilots must understand the effects of fuel burn and load shifts during flight, and how these factors affect helicopter performance and handling characteristics.
Flight Locating Procedures
Flight Plan Filing
Understanding the difference between company flight plans and FSS flight plans, and when each is appropriate.
Communication Requirements
Maintaining appropriate communication with company flight following personnel and/or air traffic control.
Reporting Procedures
Required position reports, departure/arrival notifications, and flight completion confirmation.
4
Overdue Aircraft Procedures
Actions to be taken when an aircraft is overdue or communication is lost.
Operational Control Policies
Definition of Operational Control
The exercise of authority over initiating, conducting, or terminating a flight. Aris Nevada, Inc. maintains operational control of all Part 135 flights through designated personnel.
Authorized Personnel
Only individuals specifically designated in the company's Operations Specifications have operational control authority, including the Director of Operations and Chief Pilot.
Pilot Responsibilities
While the company maintains operational control, the PIC has final authority regarding the safe operation of the aircraft and must comply with all company policies and procedures.
Adverse Weather Operations
Recognition
Identifying developing adverse weather conditions through observation and weather resources
Avoidance
Planning routes to avoid known or forecast adverse weather conditions
Encounter Procedures
Proper techniques if inadvertently encountering adverse conditions
Diversion Decision-Making
When and how to divert to alternate landing sites
Crew Resource Management Principles
Communication
Clear, concise information exchange between crew members and with passengers
Teamwork
Effective coordination and cooperation among all personnel involved in the operation
Workload Management
Prioritizing tasks and distributing responsibilities appropriately
Decision Making
Using all available resources to make sound operational decisions
Situational Awareness
Maintaining awareness of aircraft status, environment, and operational factors
Personal Electronic Device Fire Protection
Fire Identification
Recognizing signs of lithium battery fires in personal electronic devices
2
Extinguishing Procedure
Using halon, water, or non-alcoholic beverages to extinguish and cool the device
Cooling Process
Continuing to cool the device for at least 15 minutes without touching it
Safe Disposal
Using personal protective equipment if available and discarding the device through the pilot sliding window
Training Program Completion and Certification
70%
Written Exam Minimum
Required passing score for all written examinations
100%
Flight Maneuvers
Proficiency level required for all flight operations
24
Months
Maximum recurrent training interval
Upon successful completion of all required training segments and qualification checks, pilots receive appropriate certification documenting their qualification status. This documentation is maintained in the pilot's training records and updated in the Pilot Records Database as required by regulations. Ongoing proficiency is ensured through the recurrent training program, with pilots required to complete recurrent training at specified intervals to maintain their qualification status.