What you will learn
- Execute advanced autorotation techniques including 180-degree turns and power recovery.
- Plan and conduct external load operations under Part 133 including load classification and rigging.
- Apply Part 135 requirements for commercial helicopter operations including HEMS.
- Calculate helicopter performance using height-velocity diagrams and OGE hover ceiling charts.
- Perform maximum performance takeoffs and steep approaches to confined areas.
- Manage helicopter emergencies at the commercial pilot proficiency level.
Topics covered
Advanced Autorotations
180-degree autorotation, straight-in autorotation, power recovery techniques, rotor RPM management, and flare timing.
External Load Operations (Part 133)
Class A, B, C, and D external loads, operator certificates, long-line operations, pendulum effect management, and CG considerations.
Commercial Helicopter Operations
Part 135 helicopter requirements, EMS/HEMS considerations, duty time limitations, operational specifications, and company check requirements.
Helicopter Performance
Height-velocity diagram, OGE hover ceiling calculations, maximum gross weight hover charts, density altitude effects, and power management.
Maximum Performance Maneuvers
Maximum performance takeoffs, steep approaches, confined area operations at commercial standards, and pinnacle operations.
Emergency Operations
Power-off autorotation with turns, settling with power recovery, LTE recognition and recovery, and systems malfunctions.
High-Altitude Operations
High-altitude takeoffs and landings, density altitude performance planning, and power available vs. power required analysis.
Offshore Operations
Offshore procedures, helideck operations, overwater flight considerations, and survival equipment requirements.
Prerequisites
- •Private Pilot Helicopter certificate or equivalent knowledge.
- •Understanding of basic helicopter aerodynamics and systems.
- •Familiarity with Part 91 helicopter operations.