Author: Randy Rowles
The FAA requires all initial pilot certificate applicants (except ATP) to demonstrate cross-country proficiency during a practical test. The Practical Test Standard (PTS) Area of Operation identifying the proficiency to be demonstrated is titled “Navigation.” Tasks included within this section of the PTS are pilotage and dead reckoning, radio navigation and radar services, diversion, and lost procedures. This portion of the exam is intended to verify that the student has sufficient knowledge to fly a helicopter safely outside of his or her local flying area.
[Read More...]
Categories:
Rotorcraft Checkride
Within the FAA’s practical test standard (PTS) for helicopters, the proficiency requirements to successfully demonstrate a running/roll-on landing are identified. They are seemingly simple: establish and maintain: a shallow approach angle, a proper rate of closure, and proper flight control technique after surface contact. The PTS wants us to talk about surface texture, height/velocity diagram, and factors affecting performance data, all really good topics. However, I’ve found a question that few applicants can answer: Why are we here?
[Read More...]
Categories:
Rotorcraft Checkride
In last October’s issue, we discussed time-critical reaction requirements during an unanticipated
[Read More...]
Categories:
Rotorcraft Checkride
Any instructor having conducted significant hours of instruction has experienced instructional
[Read More...]
Categories:
Rotorcraft Checkride
As helicopter pilots, we learn the art of autorotation early in our training program. We practice
[Read More...]
Categories:
Rotorcraft Checkride
Did you recently take an examination facilitated by a FAA-appointed Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE)?
[Read More...]
Categories:
Rotorcraft Checkride
The FAA Practical Test Standards (PTS) outline the minimum standards for a pilot applicant. The
[Read More...]
Categories:
Rotorcraft Checkride
In an effort to find common ground with an applicant and relax them prior to a checkride, I often
[Read More...]
Categories:
Rotorcraft Checkride