Safety Committee

Prototypical Safety Program Manual

StandardOperatingProceduresRotaryWing
Allaircraftoperationswillbeconductedinaccordancewithallapplicable
FAR,localandnationallaws,manufacturersaircraftmanuals/limitationsandthis
Manual.Aircraftwillbeoperatedinanairworthyconditionatalltimes.Aviation
personnelareexpectedtoutilizesound,conservativejudgmentintheirapproachto
theirduties.SafetyistheprimaryobjectiveoftheDepartment.
HelicopterFlightOperations(General)
Thepoliciesandproceduresinthissectionaresupplementaltothoselisted
in the General Section of this manual. Where the word aircraft is used, the
material applies to both fixedwing and helicopter operations. The words
airplaneorhelicopterrespectivelyrefertoairplaneandhelicoptercategories
ofaircraft.
FlightCrewCheckinandPostFlightPeriod
Flightcrewmembersshallcheckinforflightsnolessthanonehourand15
minutespriortothescheduleddeparturetime.Anearliercheckintimemaybe
designated by the Chief Pilot or by the PIC when, in his/her judgment, the
conditionswarrantadditionaltimepriortodeparture.
Thepostflightperiodisassumedtobe30minutes.
FlightPlanning
The PIC is responsible for flight planning and related information
(i.e. catering, ground transportation, servicing requirements, reservations, etc.).
He/Shemayassignthisdutytotheotherpilotbutretainstheresponsibilityforthe
task.Theremustbenoconfusionastowhichpilotistodothisfunction. Both
pilots will thoroughly review the trip manifest prepared by dispatch. Any
discrepanciesorquestionsshouldbereviewedwiththedispatcher. Confirmthe
number of passengers on each leg so that proper fuel planning can be
accomplished,andensureallgroundtransportationneedsareunderstood.
Thepilotaccomplishingtheflightplanningshallmakethemaximumuseof
availableinformation andspecializedequipment(computerflightplanningand
commercialweatherservices)providedbytheDepartment.
HeliportsarenotnormallyincludedintheNOTICESTOAIRMENreports
issuedbylocalFlightServiceFacilities.ItisthereforethePICsresponsibilityto

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determine the latest status of destination heliports. Dispatch will make every
possible effort to determine heliport condition before the flight and relay
appropriateinformationtothecrew.Therewillbeoccasions(holidays,weekends,
changeofdestinations,wintersnows,dignitaryorpoliticianclosures,delaysetc.)
whenthePICwillberequiredtoascertainheliportconditionsonher/hisown.
HeliportconditionshouldbeconfirmedbythePICatleast30minutespriorto
arrivalwithacalltothedestinationheliportorcontrollingauthorityforthelatest
advisories. Ifaphonecallisnotfeasible,trytomakeradiocontactasearlyas
possibleintotheflighttoallowachangeofdestinationifconditionswarrant.The
landingauthorityatprivatelyoperatedheliportswillalwaysbearrangedthrough
the dispatcher. A contact number to determine heliport conditions will be
providedtothePICpriortotheproposedflightdeparture.
Normally, the senior pilot will fly the first leg as PIC (Captain) when
departingaDepartmentbase.Subsequentlegsshallbealternatedinaccordance
withoperationalqualificationsandbymutualagreementbetweenthepilots.
RequiredPublications
Currentcopiesofthismanual,AircraftMaintenanceLog(AML),Deferred
MaintenanceLog(DML)andMinimumEquipmentList(MEL)andFARmustbe
carriedonboardeachCompanyaircraft.
The Department maintains subscriptions to FAA and Jeppesen for each
aircraftandbase.EachCompanyaircraftwillcarryacurrentsetofaeronautical
charts, instrument approach procedure charts and applicable supplemental
information.Whereavailable,thesubscriptionshallincludecolor,shadedterrain
and/orpictorialapproachcharts.
The charts, FAAapproved rotorcraft flight manual (RFM) and any
applicablesupplementsandoperatinghandbooksforeachaircraftandforinstalled
optionalequipmentwillbeprovidedthroughasubscription/revisionservice,as
applicable. Each Department aircraft will carry a current set of these
manuals/handbooks/supplementsduringallflightoperations.Acurrentcopyofthe
IATA Hazardous Material Manual Dangerous Goods Regulations will be
maintainedateachbaseofoperation.
Additionaland/orsupplementalpublicationsmaybeobtainedasneeded.
The Chief Pilot must approve all subscriptions and major purchases of
publications.
Contractaircraftsuppliersshallprovideallrequireddocuments,manuals,
approach and navigation charts and maps, certificates, licenses, logs and other

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written information for the aircraft being supplied. All contractorsupplied
materialmustbecompleteandcurrent.
Weather
Prior to each flight, the PIC will obtain aviation weather reports and
forecastsandanalyzethefollowingdatatodeterminetheeffectontheproposed
operations:
LatestNOTAMforthepointofdeparture,routeofflight,thedestination
andthealternatedestination.
Surfaceweatherobservationsforpertinentstations.
Forecastsforallpertinentroutesandstations.
Reportsorforecastsofsevereweather,turbulenceoricingwhichcould
affecttheproposedflight.
Anyknownairtrafficdelays.
Pilotswillcheckweatherforecastssufficientlyinadvanceofaproposed
flight and notify Flight Dispatch of any conditions that may affect passenger
schedules. This includes checking weather forecasts the night before an early
morning scheduled departure. The PIC may delegate some of these duties;
however,he/shemaintainstheresponsibility.
WeatherLimitations
This section sets forth operational limitations for the Department rotor
wing aircraft with regard to weather conditions. This sections provisions are
intendedtosimplifydecisionmakingincriticalareas.Itiswellknownthatall
pilotsshouldavoidflightintoadverseweatherconditionsandthatcarefulplanning
and inflight evaluation should preclude such encounters. In the event that
unforecasted adverse weather conditions are encountered, the pilots shall take
immediateactiontoavoidfurtherexposuretothoseconditions.
NopilotmayoperateunderVFRwithlessthanonestatutemilevisibility
and/oraceilinglessthan500feetfordayoperations.Fornightoperations,the
followingshallapply.Nopilotshalloperateatnightwithlessthan:

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3statutemilesvisibilityandaceilingof900feetor,
4statutemilesvisibilityandaceilingof800feet.
Caremustbetakentonotethefloorofcontrolledairspacealongallroutestobeflown.If
controlledairspaceistobeenteredwithlessthantheweatherminimumsprescribedforthat
airspaceunderFAR91.155,aSpecialVFR(SVFR)clearanceissuedunderFAR91.157must
beobtained.
Noflightwillbedispatchedintoforecastorreportedfreezingprecipitationandnopilot
maycontinueflightinicingconditions.
Whenwindgustsgreaterthan35knotsarereported,noheliportlandingswillbe
allowed unless by determination of the PIC, a safe landing can be made taking into
considerationwinddirection,conditionofheliport,etc.
SevereWeatherandWeatherDetectionDevices
Flightsintoareasofknownorforecastsevereweatherwillbeavoidedtothemaximum
extentpossible.Whenflightisnecessaryintoareasofreportedthunderstorms,turbulence,etc.,
avoidancewillbeaccomplishedusingvisualmeans,airborneradarand,whenavailable,air
trafficcontrolassistance.
Anoperableweatherradarmustbeinstalledintheaircraftifoperationisplannedinto
areasofknownorforecastthunderstormactivitywhereavoidancecannotbeaccomplishedby
visualmeans.
ApproachCategory(RotorWing)
The Departments S76B helicopter will be operated to Category A
approachweatherminimums.
HelicopterPerformance
Aclearapproachanddeparturepath,consistentwithaircraftperformance
(oneengineinoperative)shallbeutilizedforallpassengercarryingoperations.
ApproachandLandingMinima
EachDepartmentpilotmakinganIFRtakeoff,approach,orlandingatan
airport(domesticorforeign)shallcomplywiththeapplicableinstrumentapproach
andweatherminimumspublishedforthatfacility.

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Department pilots shall not initiate an instrument approach procedure
unlessthelatestweatherreportforthatairport,issuedbyasourceapprovedbythe
FAAAdministrator,reportsthevisibilityatorabovethepublishedIFRlanding
minima as depicted on the applicable instrument approach procedure chart
consistentwiththeoperationalstatusoftheapproachfacilitybeingused.
IfduringaninstrumentapproachthatutilizesRVRforlandingvisibility,
theRVRisreportedtobebelowtherequiredminimumsbeforetheaircrafthas
passedtheFAF,theapproachshallbeabortedandamissedapproachshallbe
executed.IftheaircraftisinsideoftheFAFwhentheRVRisreportedtohave
gonebelowminimumconditions,thepilotmaycontinuetheapproachtoDHor
MDA.
DepartmentpilotsshallnotoperateanaircraftbelowtheauthorizedMDA
orcontinueanapproachbelowtheauthorizedDHunless:
theaircraftiscontinuouslyinapositionfromwhichadescenttoalanding
ontheintendedrunwaycanbemadeatanormalrateofdescentusing
normalmaneuvers,unlessthatdescentratewillallowtouchdowntooccur
withinthetouchdownzoneoftherunwayofintendedlanding.
theflightvisibilityisnotlessthanthevisibilityprescribedinthestandard
instrumentapproachprocedurebeingused.
whereanynecessaryvisualreferencerequirementsarespecifiedbythe
FAAAdministrator,atleastoneofthefollowingvisualreferencesforthe
intendedrunwayisdistinctlyvisibleandidentifiabletothepilot:
theapproachlightsystem,exceptthatthepilotmaynotdescend
below 100 feet above the touchdown zone elevation using the
approachlightsasareferenceunlesstheredterminatingbarsorthe
redsiderowbarsarealsodistinctlyvisibleandidentifiable
thethreshold.
thethresholdmarkings.
thethresholdlights.
therunwayendidentifierlights(REIL).

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thevisualapproachslopeindicator(VASI).
thetouchdownzonelights.
therunwayorrunwaymarkings.
therunwaylights.
Atairportsnotservedbyweatherservicesandatairportswithirregularor
minimumweatherreportingservices,theapproachmaybeinitiatedandalanding
executedif,whenreachingtheMDAorDH,theweatherisfoundtobeator
greaterthanthatspecifiedfortheapproach.Alsotheaircraftmustbestabilized
andcontinuouslyinapositionfromwhichadescenttoalandingontheintended
runwaycanbemadeatanormalrateofdescentusingnormalmaneuversand
wheresuchadescentratewillallowtouchdowntooccurwithinthetouchdown
zoneoftherunwayofintendedlanding.
ApproachesLowVisibility(RotorWing)
The Department helicopter will be operated to Category A approach
weatherminimums,orCopteronlyapproachminimumswhichincludetheCopter
ILS,100footceilingand1/4milevisibilityminimums. Thehelicopterwillbe
fullycoupled(asapplicable)withtheautopilotsengagedduringtheseapproaches.
The deceleration mode will also be engaged during the Copter only ILS
approachestominimumsof100footceiling, and1/4milevisibility. ThePIC
mustsuccessfullycompleterecurrenttraininginthehelicoptersimulatorwithin
theintervalslistedinSection4ofthismanual.Thetrainingmusthaveincluded
100'ceilingand1/4mileminimumCopterILSapproaches.
CirclingApproaches(RotorWing)
DepartmentrotorwingedaircraftwillbeoperatedtoCategoryAweather
minimumsduringcirclingapproaches.
HighMinimumsCaptain
ThefollowingrestrictionsapplytoanewCaptainwhohasnotcompleted
100flighthoursasPICinthemake/model/seriesofaircraftthathe/sheisassigned

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toflyorhasnotcompleted50flighthoursasPICinanothertypeofDepartment
aircraft:
Takeoffvisibilityofnotlessthan1/2mile(RVR2400feet/800meters).
TheDHorMDAandvisibilitylandingminimumsmustbeincreasedby
100 feet and 1/2 mile respectively. This restriction applies to the
destinationairport,destinationalternateandtakeoffalternate.
ThehighminimumsPICmustnotifyFlightDispatchassoonaspossible
when it appears that the known or forecast weather conditions are
insufficientfortheplannedflight.
SecondinCommand(Pilot)LimitationsLineOperations
PilotswhoarenotdesignatedasCaptainbytheFlightDepartmentManager
for the specific make/model/series of aircraft to be utilized may function as a
secondincommandonly.
NontyperatedpilotsshallbelimitedbyDepartmentpolicyfrom:
flyingfromthecommandseatatanytimeduringlineoperations.
makingtakeoffsandlandingsduringpassengercarryingoperations,until
theyhaveaccumulated100hoursintype.
makingtakeoffsandlandingswhen:
the reported surface visibility is less than 5/8 mile (3200 feet/1000
meters).
theRVR,ortheceilingiswithin100feetoftheapplicableapproach
minimums(DHorMDA).
TyperatedpilotswhoarenotdesignatedasCaptain(bytheDepartment)
forthetypespecificaircraftbeingflownmustcomplywiththesamelimitationsas
applicabletonontyperatedpilots,excepttheratedpilotmayflytheaircraftfrom
thecommandseatatthediscretionofthePIC(Captain).
NOTE:AllflightoperationsareatthefinaldiscretionofthePICforthatflight.
TakeoffMinimums(RotorWing)

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APIC(notdesignatedasaHighMinimumsCaptain)maytakeofffroma
runwaywhenthereportedRVRforthatrunwayisat,orabove800feetor1/8
statutemilevisibility,whicheverislowerprovidingthat:
Thereexistsasuitabletakeoffalternatewithin75nm.
Beforetakeoff,thepilotsshalldeterminefromweatherreports,forecasts
andNOTAMSthatthetakeoffalternateisatorabovelandingminimums
andisexpectedtoremainsoforthetimeperiodduringwhichthetakeoff
alternateisrequired.
ThePIChassuccessfullycompletedrecurrenttrainingintheS76Bwithin
theintervalslistedinSection4ofthismanual. Thetrainingmusthave
included 600' RVR takeoffs, aborted takeoffs and engine failure
procedures.
AlternateAirportRequirements
Requirementsforfilinganalternateairport:
All IFR flights should include at least one alternate as a normal
procedure.
WithintheconterminousUnitedStates,analternateairportneednotbe
filed for a destination airport having a standard instrument approach
procedureiftheceilingisforecasttobeatleast2,000feet(600meters)
above the destination airport elevation and the surface visibility is
forecasttobeatleast3miles(4.8km)atthedestinationairportforat
leastonehourbeforeandonehouraftertheestimatedtimeofarrivalat
thedestinationairport.
WithinthecontinentalUnitedStates,analternateairportmustbefiledfor
adestinationairportnothavingastandardinstrumentapproachprocedure
if the ceiling and visibility do not allow descent from the MEA to
approachandlandingunderbasicVFR.
Anairportmaynotbelistedasanalternateairportintheflightplanunless
theappropriateweatherreportsorforecasts,oranycombinationthereof,indicates

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that the weather conditions will be at or above the alternate weather minima
specifiedontheapplicableinstrumentapproachprocedurechartforthatparticular
airportwhentheflightarrives.
On the Jeppesen instrument approach procedure chart, alternate weather
minima are found in the forfiling as alternate box. When alternate weather
minimaarenotspecifiedforaparticularairport,approvedminimumweatheris:
Forairportshavinganapproachwithanelectronicglideslope,aceilingof
600feet(180meters)andavisibilityoftwomiles(3200meters)
ForairportswithLOC,VOR,etc.,typeapproaches,aceilingof800feet
(240meters)andavisibilityoftwomiles(3200meters)
Forairportswithnoapprovedinstrumentapproach,aceilingofatleast
1000feet(300meters)abovethelowestMEAorMOCAandavisibility
ofatleastthreemiles(4.8km).
Footnotes on the Jeppesen instrument approach procedure chart for any
particular
airportmayspecifyadditionalapplicablerestrictionsforfilingtheairportasan
alternateairport.
Intheeventofadiversiontoanalternate,regularCompanyandFARor
ICAOminimumsbecomeapplicable.Rulesapplicabletohighminimumpilotsat
regularairportsapplyequallyatthealternateinthiscase.
NoiseAbatement
Pilotswilladheretopublishednoiseabatementproceduresandvoluntary
curfewsexceptwhenthesafetyofflightisinvolved.
SpecialVFRRoutes/NoiseAbatementRoutes
HelicopterflightsshallutilizespecialVFRrouteswhenavailable.These
helicopter routes shall be flown whenever possible. The highest acceptable
altitude shall be flown on the prescribed routes to reduce the impact to noise
sensitiveareas.
FlightFollowing

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Whenever possible crews will maintain flight following and radar
advisories with ATC facilities during VFR flights. This kind of positive
communicationenhancessafetyandisimportantshouldunforeseencircumstances
arise.
NightOperations/OffAirport/Heliport
Department pilots will consider the following when operating at a Off
Airport/Heliportsiteduringthehoursofdarkness:
Thelandingsitemustbeadequatelyilluminated.Ifperimeterorstadium
lightsarenotavailable,helicopteroperationswillbelimitedtodaylight
hoursonly.
Ifavisible,lightedwinddirectionindicatorisavailableandthelanding
site has been thoroughly evaluated during the arrival landing process
(duringdaylighthours),anightdeparturemaybemadeatthediscretion
ofthePIC.
Pilotsoperatingthehelicopteratnightwillperformathoroughhigh,low
and groundlevel reconnaissance during daylight hours, before a night
takeoffisattempted.Maximumperformancetakeoffsshouldbeutilizedat
night,iffeasible,toensureobstacleclearanceisassured.
Specialconsiderationsshouldalwaysbegiventonoisesensitiveareas.
LandingSitesNonAirport/Heliport
AnoptimumlocationforaoffAirport/Heliportlandingsiteisonethatisin
closeproximitytothelocationofthepassengers.TheDepartmenthelicopterpilots
will use their best judgment when considering a potential landing site. Some
factorsthatmustbereviewedinclude:
obstructionclearance.
groundslope.
noisesensitivecommunitiesaroundtheoperatingarea.

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FODhazards.
Asuitablelandingsitewillbeaminimum,75x75ft.Thelocationcanbe
ontheground,amarinevessel,anelevatedplatform,ortheroofofabuildingor
parkinggarage.Asuitablelandingareawillprovideavisualmeanstodetermine
wind direction (i.e., wind sock, weather vane, smoke stack, flags, etc.). The
landingareaisnotrequiredtobepaved,butitmaynotcontainlooseobjectsthat
maybeblownupintotherotorsystemorengineintakes.
PriortolandingatanOffAirportsite,DepartmentFlightDispatch,orthe
helicopterpilotswillconfirmwiththelocalauthoritiesthatthehelicopterlandings
areauthorizedattheproposedlandinglocation.Ahighandlowreconnaissanceof
thesitewillbeperformedpriortocommittingtoalanding.
Thelandingsurfacemustbedry,firm,levelandabletosupporttheweight
oftheaircraftandshouldhaveatleastoneclearapproachanddeparturepath.
Passengerprotectionmustbeprovidedatalltimeswhenthehelicopteris
operatedontheground.Passengersmustneverapproachordepartthehelicopter
unlessescortedbyacrewmemberorgroundpersonneltrainedinhelicoptersafety
procedures. The PIC is responsible for determining that this requirement is
satisfied.
MixedAircraftOperationsontheRamp
Forpassengerconvenience,safety,andaviationefficiency,theoperationof
bothfixedwingandrotorwingaircraftonthesamerampiscompatibleandeasily
accomplished when standard procedures are addressed. Wheeled helicopters
producenomoreofarotorwashconcernthanairplaneswithproporjetblast.To
ensureanincreasedlevelofawarenessisrealized,thefollowingproceduresare
standard.
Helicopterswillavoidhoveringontherampornearotheraircraft.Takeoff
andlandingswillbemadefromadjacenttaxiwaysorrunwaysandnotfromthe
ramp. There will be no over flight of other aircraft at low altitudes by the
helicopter. Whenever possible, ground taxi tokeeprotor washto a minimum.
Whengroundtaxiing,reducepowertominimizerotorwash,confirmclearboth
sides,andverbalizeanysafetyconcernsduringbriefbeforetaxiing.(i.e.chocks,
mats,trash,etc.leftunattendedonramp)Groundguidesshouldbeusedwhen
taxiingaroundotheraircraft.Overlappingofrotorbladesandairplanewingswill
beavoided.Whenparking,thetailofhelicoptershouldbeawayfromdirectionof
passengers.

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Communicationsbetweenthehelicoptercrewandfixedwingcrewwillbe
exchangedonthecompanyunicomfrequencysoitisclearwhattaxioperations
areintendedforpassengerdropofforaircraftrepositioning.Thecommunications
shouldincludethedirectionoftaxi,orthesideoftheaircraftapproaching.Any
otherconcernsshouldalsobeexpressedbetweenaircraftcrews,i.e.extrabaggage,
orspecialneeds(crutches,etc).
Passengerswillalwaysbeescortedtoandfromthehelicopter.Deplaning
andboardingthehelicopterwillalwaysbefromtheside,movingoutandaway
fromundertherotordisc,andnevertothefrontorbacknearthetailrotor.The
pilotatthecontrolsofthehelicoptershouldbeattentivetogroundpersonnels
movementbystayingheadsuponthecontrolsandensurethattherotordiscis
tiltedaftfarenoughforpassengerclearance.Hatsshouldberemovedwhennear
therunninghelicopter.Umbrellaswillnotbeusednearorunderthehelicopter
rotor disc. At no time is running permitted around the helicopter. Crews will
maintainconstantvigilancewhentherearelimosorautosoperatingontheramp,
andneverallowthemtodriveundertherotordisc.
MinimumLandingFuelReserves
TheminimumreservefuelplannedtobeonboardtheCompanyhelicopter
atthetimeoflandingis300lbs.Theminimumfuelreserveisdesignedasan
absoluteminimumandisnotintendedtobeusedasalandingfueltarget.Ifa
landing is made with less than the specified quantity of fuel on board, the
CompanyassignedPICshallsubmitawrittenreportexplainingtheuseofthe
reservespecifiedtotheChiefPilotwithinfiveworkingdays.
FlightCrewmemberTripPack/FlightLog
A Trip Manifestwill be issuedbybase Dispatch foreachcrewmember
assignedtoaDepartmentscheduledtrip. Crewmembers are responsible to verify
accuracy of the Passenger Manifest (i.e. all passengers accounted for) and
destinationwiththeleadpassengerpriortodepartureandtonotifyDispatchprior
todepartureifanychangesdeveloptoanitinerarywhileconductingatrip.
Aftercompletionofthetrip,theCompanyAssignedPICshallcompletethe
passengermanifest(s)andflightlog(s)entriesandsubmitittoFlightDispatch.
Incorrectorobsoletelegdatainformationthatisfoundbytheflightcrewshould
becorrectedandthenewinformationprovidedtoDispatch.ThePICmaydelegate
thisdutybutretainsthefinalresponsibilityfortheaccuracyofthetripdata.For

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securitypurposes,allflightcrewmemberswhohavebeenissuedaTripManifest
mustreturnanyunusedportionstotheirbaseDispatchforproperdisposal.
OperatingFromUncontrolledAirports
Thefollowingarerecommendedoperatingproceduresforoperatingonor
inthevicinityofanuncontrolledairport.Whenapproximately15milesout,pilots
shouldaskATCifthereisanyconflictingtrafficandmonitortheATCfrequency
fortrafficalerts.Approximatelytenmilesout,pilotsshallbroadcast,intheblindif
necessary,positionandintentionsontheCommonTrafficAdvisoryFrequency
(CTAF)orLocalAirportAdvisory(LAA).CallsrecommendedonCTAForLAA
are:
Tenmilesout.
Enteringdownwind.
Base.
Final.
Exitingtherunway.
IFRflightplansshouldnotbecanceleduntilafterlandingatuncontrolled
airports so that search and rescue will be initiated for overdue aircraft. On
instrumentapproaches,itisrecommendedthatpilotsbroadcastthefollowingon
CTAF:
Departingfinalapproachfix.
Onfinalapproach.
Approachcompleted.
WhenoperatingonorinthevicinityofanairportinclassGairspace,the
FAArequiresthateachpilotofahelicopteravoidtheflowoffixedwingaircraft.
It is the responsibility of the PIC to ensure that the landing area is clear. If
conditionspermit,anapproachoverheadtheairporthelpstoverifythattherunway

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orlandingareaisclear,thewinddirection,therunwayinuse,andincreasesthe
probabilityofvisualacquisitionbyotheraircraft.
When departing from the airport, broadcast departure intentions before
taxiingandbeforetakingtherunway.Pilotsshouldcomplywiththedeparture
proceduresfortheairportincludingnoiseabatementprocedures.Recommended
proceduresare:
Makefrequentradiocalls.Requestanytrafficinthevicinityoftheairport
identifythemselvessothatyouareawareofeachotherspresence.
Turnallexteriorlightson.Diminteriorlightsasmuchaspossibleduring
nightoperationforbetteroutsidevisibility.
BE ALERT. Complete as many checklist items as possible before
enteringthepattern.
Call the airport manageror the FBO prior to departing on the trip to
inquire about runway conditions, weather, NOTAM, runway lighting,
obstaclesoranypossiblehazards.
Review charts prior to flight and note minimum altitudes for terrain
clearance.
AirworthinessDetermination(Pilots)
Thefinalresponsibilityfordeterminingairworthinessoftheaircraft(FAR
91.7)restswiththePIC.Inadditiontocompletingapreflightcheck,thePICshall
thoroughlyreviewtheAMLandDMLandsatisfyhimself/herselfthattheaircraft
isinanairworthycondition.Theseresponsibilitiesincludebutarenotlimitedto
ensuring:
compliancewithallapplicableADsandmandatoryservicebulletins.
that the planned flight or series of flights will not exceed the time
remainingforthetime/datemaintenancerequirementsasshownonthe
ItemDuesticker.
that all inspection due dates, hour or cycle limits have been carried
forwardandarenotpastdue.

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that all maintenance discrepancies have been corrected or deferred in

accordance with the MEL. All maintenance record entries shall be
completedandsignedbyacertifiedtechnicianapprovingtheaircraftfor
returntoservice.
that the deferred items do not render the aircraft unsuitable for the
plannedflightorseriesofflights.
thatallrequiredequipmentanddocumentsareonboard.
AircraftPreFlightCheck
Preflightchecksaretobeaccomplishedbyapilotinaccordancewiththe
RotorcraftFlightManual.
UseofMinimumEquipmentList(MEL)
TheFAArequiresthatallsystems,componentsandequipmentmustbein
operatingconditionpriortoaircraftdispatchunlessallowedtobeinoperativeby
anFAAapprovedMEL.AllDepartmentaircrafthaveFAAapprovedMELs.A
copyoftheMELwillbecarriedoneachDepartmentaircraft.Ifanaircraftsystem
becomesinoperativeawayfromthehomemaintenancebase,thepilotwillenter
thediscrepancyintheAML.Aninoperativeitemmaybedeferredifpermittedby
the MEL, by number per MEL. Any maintenance or operational action,
installationofplacardsormechanicalstops,installed,etc.requiredbytheMEL
mustbecompletedpriortothenextflight.
VORCheck
ThePICorhis/herdesigneeshallcomplete,orverifycompletion of,a
VORcheckinaccordancewithFAAregulations.IfaVORcheckisdue,thepilot
shallcompletethecheckanddocumentcompletionintheAML:
IntheDiscrepancyblock:VORCheckDue
IntheCorrectiveActionblock:VORCheckCompleted
Date
Place

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BearingError
Signature&ATPNumber
AftercompletingtheAMLentry,thePilotshallenterhis/herinitialsand
dateofcheckintheappropriatemonthblockoftheVORCheckstickerlocated
ontheinsidecoveroftheAMLlogbinder.
ColdWeatherOperations
Department aircraft should be hangared when freezing precipitation or
snowisanticipated.
If the aircraft is exposed to accumulations of frost, ice or snow, the
contamination will be removed in accordance with the aircraft manufacturers
recommended procedures and industrystandard methods prior to flight. The
aircraftshouldbepreheated,whenpossible,priortoattemptingtoactivateanyof
the aircraft systems. Cabin systems (water storage, food and drink containers,
coffeemakers,etc.)mustbeproperlyhandled(removedandstoredinheatedarea,
serviced with antifreeze, etc.) to prevent damage from freezing or during
defrosting.
Aircraftparkedoutsideshouldbeheadedintothewindwhenpossibleto
minimizetheaccumulationoffrozenprecipitationintheopeningsaroundflight
controlsurfaces.Coversandplugsmustbeinstalledtoprotecttheengineinlets
from accumulation while the aircraft is parked. The parking brakes must be
releasedaftertheaircrafthasbeenchockedtopreventdamageduetotemperature
changes.
Frost,SnowandIcing
No pilot shall attempt a takeoff if the aircraft has frost, snow or ice
adhering to any, windshield, powerplant installation, flight or rate instrument
system, wings, rotors, control surfaces or other areas that could affect flight
characteristicsorperformance.
Aircraftthatarefoundtohavefrost,snoworiceaccumulationsmustbede
icedpriortoflightusingindustrystandardproceduresandmaterials.Ifexisting
conditionscouldcauseaccumulationstoreoccur,thePICmustensurethatthe
aircraftisdeicedasoftenasnecessarybasedondeicingproductspecificationsand
observed conditions. Prior to takeoff, the PIC must determine that there is no
accumulationthatwouldaffectperformanceoftheaircraft.
Flightmustnotbeattemptedintoknownorforecasticingconditions.

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Towing
Alltowingoperationswillbeperformedinaccordancewiththemethods
and limitations described in the appropriate sections of the RFM and/or
maintenancemanual.
AircraftRefuelingProcedures
ThePICisresponsibletoensurethatfuelisofthepropergradeandquality
andthatthedesiredamountisplacedintotheaircraftfueltanks.ThePICmay
delegatethefuelingoftheaircraftbutretainstheresponsibility.Thecrewmember
shouldverifythattherefuelingequipmentislabeledwiththenameoftheproduct
ordered(JetA,JetB,etc.),andisproperlypositionedandisnotunderanypartof
theaircraftthatcouldsettleduringrefueling.Fueltrucksshouldnotbebackedup
totheaircraftandshouldbeparkedsothatthetruckcouldbemovedawayfrom
theaircraftincaseofamalfunctionoremergency.Thefueltruckwillbebonded
totheaircraftstructureattherecommendedbondingpointandthenozzleground
wireattachedbeforeanyfuelcapisopenedorthenozzleisconnected.
Nofuelingwillbeperformedwithpassengersonboardtheaircraft.One
pilotwillsupervisetherefuelingandensurethattheaircraftisproperlygrounded
beforefuelingcommences.Thesupervisingcrewmemberwillphysicallycheckthe
fuelcapsforsecurityatthecompletionoffuelingandwillensurethatallbonding
cablesaredisconnectedfromtheaircraft.Thebondingcablesandfuelhosemust
beclearoftheaircraftbeforetakeoffoccurs.
Thepersonnelusedforrapidfuelingmusthavepriorexperiencefueling
helicopterswithenginesrunningandbladesturning.Asuitablefireextinguisher
mustbereadilyavailableduringallfuelingoperationsandapilotmustremainat
thecontrolswiththeenginesatflightidle.
Nofuelingwillbeallowedifathunderstormisintheimmediatevicinityof
thefuelingfacility.Allstrobelightswillbeturnedoffandnoradiotransmissions
shallbemadeduringfueling.
Ifthereisanyquestionastothequalityofthefuelorfuelingequipment
beingused,theflightcrewmemberwillrequestthatasamplebetakenfromthe
finalfuelfilteroftherefuelerand/orfromthedeliverynozzlebeingusedtorefuel
theaircraftpriortoacceptingfuelintotheaircraft.Fuelsamplesshouldhavea
clearandbrightappearanceandhavenoevidenceoffreeorsuspended(cloudyor
hazy)waterandhavenovisibleparticulatematter(dirt,rust,etc.).Fuelthatisnot
clear,cleanandfreefromwatershouldnotbeaccepted.

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
GroundPowerUnits
Whenagroundpowerunit(GPU)issupplyingpowertoaircraftsystems,
one person qualified to operate the GPU must remain in attendance in the
immediatevicinityoftheaircraft.Theimmediatevicinityoftheaircraftisdefined
assufficientlycloseinproximitytoenablethepersontotakeimmediatecorrective
actionintheeventofanemergencyinvolvingtheaircraftand/orthepowerunit.
CabinEmergencyEquipment
Emergency equipment meeting the requirements of FAR 91.513 and
passengerbriefingcardsarecarriedonDepartmentaircraft.Eachcrewmember
shall be familiar with the location, condition, inspection status (per attached
inspection tag or label) and operation of the emergency equipment carried on
boardtheaircraft.
SurvivalEquipmentRequirements
Noflightwillbeconductedoverwaterthatismorethan30minutesflying
time, or 100 nautical miles from the nearest shoreline unless the equipment
specifiedinFAR91.509iscarriedonboardtheaircraft.
ThePICwillensurethattheproperamountandtypeofequipmentison
boardpriortodepartureandthateachcrewmemberisawareoftheoperationand
locationofallsurvivalequipment.
UseofFloats
Helicoptersusedforoverwaterflightoperations,includingdeparturesand
approaches,shallbeequippedwithemergencyaircraftflotationdevices.These
devices must be functional and armed during overwater departures and
approaches.
Theaircraftmustbeequippedwithapersonalflotationdevice(lifejacket)
foreachpersononboardtheaircraft.
Boarding and Deplaning Passengers with Engines Running and/or Blades
Turning

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
Atleastonepilotmustbeattheflightcontrolswheneverthehelicopterenginesare
operating.Thepilotmustbealerttopersonnelandequipmentinthevicinityoftheaircraft.
Passengersshallalwaysbeescortedbyacrewmemberwhenboardingordeplaningthe
helicopter.Coordinationwithfixedwingaircraftwillbemadewhenboardingpassengersand
luggagefromDepartmentfixedwingaircraftordeplanningtoDepartmentfixedwingaircraft.
Ahelicoptercrewmembermustmeetafixedwingcrewmembertoacceptbaggageandsafely
escortpassengerstotheaircraft
Duetothelowtippathofthemainrotorblades,passengersshouldneverbeallowedto
approach, or depart, the aircraft from the front. Passengers should never be
allowedtomovetowardthetailrotorbeyondthebaggagecompartmentarea.Allpassenger
movementshouldbefromthesamesideofthehelicopterandacrewmembermustsupervise
themovements.
Acrewmemberwillload/unloadthepassengerbaggageandwillensurethatthe
passengersareseatedandtheseatbeltsarefastened.Eachpassengerwillbehandedabriefing
card.Thecrewmemberwillensurethatalldoorsareproperlysecuredbeforereturningtothe
cockpit.
Caution:Umbrellaswillnotbeopenednearorunderthehelicopterrotor
disc.Windsandrotorwashcanunexpectedlypullanumbrellaintotherotor
disc.
BaggageLoading/Storage
Baggagewillbeplacedindesignatedcompartmentsorplacedwhereitwill
not block access to aisles or normal/emergency egress routes. Passengers may
accesshandbaggageduringcruiseflight.Baggagemustbesecuredfortakeoffand
landing and passengers shall be briefed of this requirement. Cabin baggage,
including briefcases, must be properly secured to prevent it from becoming a
projectileduringtakeoff,landingorduringinflightturbulence.
Baggageloadingwillbesharedbetweenflightcrewsandgroundpersonnel.
CabinAnnouncements/Briefings
Pilots are to keep passengers informed of delays and other important
informationpertinenttotheflightbeforeeachtakeoff.ThePICshallensurethat
all passengers are briefed as required under FAR Part 91, which includes the
following:
Useandoperationofseatbelts/shoulderharnesses.

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
Thelocationandoperationofemergencyexits.
Thelocationandoperationofsurvivalequipment.
UseoftheSmokeshieldrespiratordevices.
Smoking.
Stowageofloosearticlesandhandbaggage.
Useofportableelectronicdevices.
Recordedbriefingsmaybeusedandsupplementedbyprintedbriefingcards.Thesecardsmustbecarriedina
locationthatisvisibleandconvenientandmustcontainaircraftspecificinformation.
Priortoflightsrequiringflotationequipment,pilotsshallensurethatallpassengershavebeenbriefedonitsuse.
PortableElectronicDevices
Nopersonshalloperateapersonalradiotransmitter,televisionreceiver,
cellularphoneoranyotherelectronicdeviceknowntoemitelectromagneticor
radiofrequencyemissionsthatcouldinterferewiththeaircraftnavigationsystems
duringflight.
Portable tape recorders, pacemakers, hearing aids, electric
shavers,DVD/CDplayersandportablecomputersareacceptableforuseonboard
Departmentaircraft.
Headsets/Cockpit
Eachflightcrewmemberissuppliedwithaheadset.Headsetsshallbeused
byallcockpitcrewmembersanytimetheaircraftisinmotiononthesurface,or
airborne.
SterileCockpit
Crewmemberswilleliminateallextraneouscockpitconversationthatdoes
notapplydirectlytotheoperationoftheaircraftanytimetheaircraftisinmotion
onthesurface,orairborne,whileoperatingincongested,busyairspace.

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
The sterile cockpit environment will also be maintained during peak
workloadflightperiods,i.e.approachesanddepartures.
OperationofFlightControls
OnlyDepartmentemployeesdesignatedaspilots,contractpilots,contract
flight training pilots, FAA Pilot Examiner or Designated Pilot Examiner, a
qualifiedmanufacturerstestpilotoraCompanydesignatedinstructorpilotmay
manipulatetheflightcontrolsofanyCompanyaircraft.
StandardizationProgram
TheDepartmentStandardizationProgramencompassestheuseofStandard
Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Standardization Flights to ensure effective
crewcoordination.Crewcoordinationistheeffectivedelegationofresponsibility
anddivisionofworkloadamongtheflightcrewmembers.Crewcoordinationis
essentialinthesafeoperationofDepartmentaircraft.
TheuseofSOPs,checklistsandterminologycreatesastandardizedsystem
wherebythepilotsbecomeimmediatelyawareofanydeparturefromthenormal
sequenceofeventsornormalsystemoperations.TheuseoftheseSOPswillplace
theflightcrewinthebestpositiontorecognizepotentialproblemsandrespondto
emergency/abnormalsituationsinthepropermanner.
Flight crews are not authorized to deviate from Department procedures
unlessthedeviationisinthebestinterestofsafety.Allsuchdeviationsshallbe
reported to the Chief Pilot within 24 hours of the occurrence. A constant
evaluation process ensures that these procedures are effective and suitable for
Departmentflightoperations.
ThePIC retainsthefinalauthorityfortheconductoftheflight. Unless
alreadydictatedbyDepartmentSOPs,thePICmustclearlyestablishthepilot
flying(PF)andpilotnotflying(PNF)responsibilities sothattherewillbeno
confusionastothedutiesortaskassignment.
ThePFoperatesorcommandstheoperationoftheflightcontrols,flight
instruments and the autopilot and his/her primary responsibility is to fly the
aircraft.
ThePNFperformsallothercockpitdutiesincludingthefollowing:
In normal flight Navigates, communicates, programs communication
andnavigation

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
equipment, monitors the radar and flight and engine instruments, and
completesrequiredpaperworkandothertasks,asdirectedbythePF.
DuringemergenciesorabnormalsystemoperationsChecksinstrument
indications, reads/accomplishes checklists, performs checks, takes
correctiveaction,asnecessary.
AllemergencyactionstakenbythePNFshouldbevalidatedwiththePF
andconcurrenceobtainedpriortotakingtheaction.
If an apparent error in any flight parameter is detected, the PNF shall
immediatelynotifythePFofthedeviationfrompublishedprocedures,limitations,
orairtrafficclearanceorrouting.ThePFandthePNFshallcoordinatewitheach
otherpriortoinitiatingthefollowing:
Achangeinaircraftconfiguration.
Atransferringofaircraftcontrol.
Selectionorchangeofnavigationequipmentsettingsorfrequencies.
Checklistinitiationandcompletion.
Achangeinaltitude.
Achangeinweatherradarsetting.
PreDepartureBriefing
ThePICshallconductapredeparturebriefingpriortoeachflight.Thebriefingshall
includeallcrewmemberstoenhanceteambuildingandsetthetonefortheflight.Thorough
preflightbriefingsshallbeusedtoensurethatnosignificantpointsareomitted.
UseofChecklist
TheDepartmentSOPsarebasedonthesystematicuseofcheckliststo
accomplishtherequiredchecks(normal,abnormal,emergencyetc.).SOPitems
thatareshowninquotationmarksaretobestatedaswritten.
StandardOperatingProcedureRotorWing

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
ThefollowingStandardOperatingProcedure(SOP)istobeutilizedinallroutinerotor
wingflightoperationsconductedbythedepartment.AnydeviationfromthisSOPasdictated
byconditions,orcircumstances,mustbethoroughlybriefedbythePilotFlyingandunderstood
byallcrewmembers.
PrestartCheck
Task/InitiationCue

PF

PNF

Preflightcheckcompleted.

The cockpit preparation can be completed by

eitherpilotusingthePrestartchecklist.However,
certaintaskscompletedbyonlyonepilotshould
be verified by both pilot crewmembers
priortostartingengines.Thesetasksare:
CompletionofthePrestartchecklist

Start/RunupCheck
Aminimumofonepersonqualifiedtooperateaircraftenginesmustbe
seatedinapilotseatwhenanaircraftengineisstarted,orrunning.Engineswillbe
startedutilizingtheproperchecklistprocedures.Before startinganengine,the
immediateareaaroundtheaircraftmustbevisuallycheckedforpotentialhazards
toensureasafestart.Pilotsshouldmakeanefforttohavealineservicepersonact
asanoutsideobserverduringenginestartswheneverpractical.Allenginesmust
bestartedbeforecommencingtaxi.
Task/InitiationCue

PF

PNF

Start/Runupcheck
complete.

Call,StartandRunup
Checks.
BothpilotscompleteStart/Runupchecklist.
Call,Start/runup
checkcomplete.

PreTaxi/TaxiChecks
Task/InitiationCue

PF

PNF

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
Allenginesrunningand
Taxistart/runupchecklist
complete.
Aircraftclearedtotaxi.

Call,Pretaxi/Taxichecks. Obtain ATIS and

clearance.
BothpilotscompletethePretaxi/taxichecklist.
Call,ReadytoTaxi
Bothpilotsclearaircraftfortaxi,andduringtaxi.

TaxiCheck
Nosewheelsteeringandbrakingshouldbecheckedassoonaspossibleafter
leavingchocks.
WhenanyDepartmentaircraftistobemovedunderitsownpower,one
personqualifiedtotaxitheaircraftisrequiredtobeseatedinthepilotseatwith
seatbeltsfastenedandseatandcontrolsproperlyadjusted.Operationoncrowded
ramps and taxiways requires the attention ofbothpilots. Paperwork and other
cockpitdutiesshallnotbeaccomplishedwhiletaxiingincloseproximitytoother
aircraftorobstructions.Bothpilotsshallmaintainmaximumpossiblevigilance.
Whentheaircraftisbeingmaneuveredinclosequarters,thepilotnotcontrolling
theaircraftwillsignifyproperclearanceonhis/hersidebyplacinghis/herhandon
thecenteroftheglareshieldwiththethumbinathumbupsignal.Thiswillplace
thehandsignalinthepilotsperipheralvisionandwillallowthepersontaxiingto
devotehis/herattentiontohis/hersideoftheaircraftandtheareainfrontofthe
aircraft.Theaircraftwillnotbetaxiedunlessthepilothasdeterminedthatthereis
enoughclearancetomaneuvertheaircraftsafely.Groundguideswillbeutilized
whenever possible to ensure required clearance is maintained. When adequate
clearanceisindoubt,theaircraftshouldbetowed.
Systems checks should be accomplished so that, at least, one pilot is
maintaining vigilance. Checks should be accomplished at times and locations,
duringtaxiing,withtheleastexposuretoagroundmishapandappropriatefor
verificationofsystemintegrity.
It may be necessary for the pilot not flying (PNF) to get the clearance
duringtaxi.Ifpossible,cockpitflowshouldbemanagedtoavoidthis.However,
whenthePNFisrequiredtocopytheclearanceduringtaxi,thepilotflying(PF)
mustmaintainvigilanceandcareintaxiing.Changestoanyclearance/procedure
priortodepartureshallbereviewedbybothpilotswiththehelicopterstopped.
Task/InitiationCue

PF

PNF

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
Pretaxi/taxichecklist

Calls, Pre
taxi/Taxichecklist
complete.

complete.

Call,BeforeTakeoff
checklist.
BothpilotscompleteBeforeTakeoffChecklist,in
accordance with aircraft flight manual, through
takeoffbriefing.
TakeoffBriefing
Priortotakeoff,thePFshallconsider(atleast)thefollowingitems,and
briefthePNF,asappropriate:
Special factors influencing this takeoff (wet runway, antiicing
requirements,crosswind,deviationsfromthenorm,etc.).
Verifytheairspeedsettings(bugs).
Verifythenavigationequipmentsetup.
Verifytheinitialflightclearance(headings,altitudes,etc.).
Reviewtheemergencyreturnplan.
PFwillcompletethebriefingbyaskingDoyouhaveanythingtoadd?
IfthePNFhasnothingtoadd,he/shewillstateIhavenothingtoadd.
Ifthe PNF has questions orcomments, theywill be addressedbefore
continuingthe
checklist.
UsetheacronymSUDSforTakeoffBriefings.
S Vspeedsi.e.CheckchartbasedonGrossweightandtemperature.
U UndercarriageGearupcalledatspecifiedspeed,andwhowillpop
floatsifnecessary.
D Directiontoturnifproblemdevelops.i.e.Strongwindfromthesouth,
willheadsouth.

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
S SafetyIssue?i.e.Sailboatinfrontofheliportontheriverwithtall
mast.
Task/InitiationCue

PF

PNF

Takeoffbriefingcompleted.

Complete Before
Takeoff checklist.
Call, Before
Takeoff check
complete.

BeforeTakeoffCheck
BothpilotswillreviewanychangesintheATCclearancepriortoinitiating
the Takeoff.AllBefore Takeoffchecklistitemsmustbe completedbefore the
takeoffcommences.Thisoperationisthefinalcheckbeforetheflightphaseand
mustbeproperlycompleted.
Task/InitiationCue

PF

PNF

PNFcalls,BeforeTakeoff
checkcomplete.

Call,Readyforhover

Obtainstakeoff
clearance.

Takeoff
Task/InitiationCue
PF
PNF
In position for takeoff. PF call, Hover check. Call, Hover check at
Before Takeoff checklist Pulls collective to hover (torque indicated called
completed and cleared for power as per RFM.
takeoff.

Hover

power

normal, PF

instrumentsnormal.
Positive

call

On

the

out, ie. 68%). Instruments

stabilized.
Monitor
engines
and
systems
indications.
go, Continues
to
monitor

Maintain directional engines and systems

control,steadyincreasein indications.
powertotakeoffsetting.
airspeed
Call,Airspeedalive

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
indication
PNF calls, Airspeed Verifyairspeed.
alive.
AtV1speed
Call,V1.
PNFcalls,V1
Adjust power, accelerate
toV2.
AtV2speed.
Call,V2.
PNFcalls,V2
VerifyV2
ClimbCheck
Task/InitiationCue
PF
PNF
Atpositiverateofclimb:
Call,PositiveRate.
PNF calls, Positive Verifypositiverate.Call, Select gear up. Call,
rate.
Gearup.
Gear selected up.
Monitor and call, Gear
indicatedup.
Airspeed accelerate to Monitorengineandflight
VBROC
instruments.
Establishedinclimb
EitherPForPNFcall,Climbcheck
PForPNFcalls,Climb
Complete checklist. Call,
check
Climbcheckcomplete.
AltitudeVerificationProcedure
Thefollowingprocedureswillnormallybeusedregardlessofwhichpilotis
flying:
ThePilotNotFlyingsetsthealtitudeandpointstothealtitudealerter.
ThePilotFlyingpointsatthenewaltitudeandverballyacknowledgesit.
Ifthereisanythingotherthantotalagreementbybothpilotsduringthe
verificationprocess,ATCistobecontactedimmediatelytoresolvetheconflict.
Alwaysseekverificationofanyclearanceyoudonotunderstandorisunderstood
differentlybyanycrewmember.NEVERresolveaclearanceconflictissuedby
cockpitconsensusalone.Donotleaveanassignedaltitudeifthereisanyquestion
aboutanewlyassignedaltitudeuntilithasbeenverifiedwithATC.

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
AltitudeCalloutProcedure
ThePFwillverbalizeleavingthealtitude1,000feetpriortoanassigned
altitude.Thecalloutistoincludethealtitudevacatingandtheassignedaltitudei.e.
Sixthousandforseventhousand. AfterthePFmakesthiscall,thePNFwill
verifyandvalidatethecallbystatingcheck.IfthePFfailstomakethecall,the
PNFshallinitiatethecallandthePFshallvalidatethecall.
ApproachBriefing
The PNF shall have the appropriate navigation and approach charts
organizedandreadilyavailable.ThePNFshallobtainthedestinationweatherand
theapproachinuseinformationandadvisethePF.
Bothpilotsshallreviewtheinformationandproceduretobeusedforthe
descent and approach. The PF shall brief the PNF of his/her intentions. The
briefing should be concise and not be an attempt to memorize the approach
procedure. It should include a review of the

pertinent information and any special conditions, or procedures, that will be

utilizedfortheapproachandlanding.Bothpilotsshallhaveaclearviewofthe
approachplateduringtheprocedure.
The4Msshouldbereviewedasfollows:
MSA
Markeraltitude
Minimumaltitude
Missedapproachprocedure.
Ifanyabnormalconditionsoreventsoccurredduringtheflightwhichwill
haveaneffectontheintendedapproachandlandingthoseimplicationsmustbe
thoroughlybriefedandunderstoodbybothpilots.
PFwillcompletethebriefingbyaskingDoyouhaveanythingtoadd?
IfthePNFhasnothingtoadd,he/shewillstateIhavenothingtoadd.

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
If the PNF has questions or comments, they will be addressed before
continuing

the

checklist.
InstrumentApproachCheck
Task/InitiationCue
Withinrange.

PF

Instrument Approach
Checklistcomplete.

PNF
Complete Instrument
Approachchecklist
Call,

Instrument
Approach

check
complete.

*NOTE:AftertheInstrumentApproachCheckhasbeencompleted,utilizethe
appropriate Approach SOP (Precision, NonPrecision, Visual) for the type of
approachthatisbeingconducted.
*PrecisionApproach(ILS)
Task/InitiationCue
PF
Atinitialconvergenceof Call,Localizeralive.
Course

Deviation
Indicator(CDI):
When the annunciators Call, Localizer
indicatecoursecapture:
capture.

With the first movement Call,Glideslopealive.

of the glideslope
indicator:
AtFAF
StatetheDH

BeforeLandingCheck(PrecisionApproach)

PNF
Confirm and call,
Localizeralive.
Confirm and call,
Localizer capture. Set
heading bug to initial
missed approach heading
(asapplicable).
Confirm and call,
Glideslopealive.

Landinggearwillbeselectedatorbeforethefinalapproachfix(FAF).
ApproachwillbestabilizedfromFAFuntillanding,ormissedapproach.

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
Task/InitiationCue
PF
PNF
One dot from glideslope Call,Geardown,Before Select gear down. Call,
intercept or approaching Landingcheck.
Gear selected down.
thefinalapproachfix.
Monitor and call, Gear
downthree

green.
Complete Before Landing
check.
When Before Landing
Call, Before Landing
checklistiscompleted.
checkcomplete.
Atglideslopecapture:
Call,

Glideslope Confirmandcall,Glideslope
capture.
capture.Setmissedapproach
altitudeinaltitudealerter.
1000'aboveminimumfor
PNF call, 1000' above
approach
minimums.
PNF calls, 1000' above Verify altitude. PF call,
minimums.
Check
Landingclearance
Prior to DH,
obtain/confirm cleared to
land, call, Cleared to
land.
500'aboveminimum.
Call, 500' above
minimums.
PNF calls, 500' above Verify altitude. PF call,
minimums.
Noflags
100'aboveminimums.
Call Approaching
minimums.
PNF calls, Approaching Verify altitude. PF call,
minimums.
Check
Atdecisionheight.
If the runway
environment is in sight,
call what you see. e.g.
Approach

lights,
continue.
Whenrunwayisinsight.
Call,Runwayinsight.
PNF calls, Runway in PFcall,Goingvisual.
Confirmgoingvisualcall
sight.
by stating, Roger,
Monitoring instruments.
Monitor

flight
instruments.

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
OR
Task/InitiationCue
Atdecisionheight.

PNFcalls,Minimums,
goaround.

PF

PNF
Iftherunway
environmentisNOTin
sight,call,Minimums,
goaround.

PFcall,Goingaround.
Executedepartment
missedapproach
procedure.

Note:IfvisualcontactislostbeyondtheDH,agoaroundistobeannouncedandexecutedby
thePF.
*NonPrecisionApproach
BeforeLandingCheck(NonPrecision)
Task/InitiationCue
Landinggeardown.

PF
PNF
Call,Geardown,Before Select gear down. Call,
Landingcheck.
Gear selected down.
Monitor and call, Gear
downthree

green.
Complete Before Landing
check.
When Before Landing
Call, Before Landing
checklistiscompleted.
checkcomplete.
AtFAF:
PFstatetheMDA.
Verify the MDA. Call the
towerandstartthetime.
1000'aboveminimumfor
PNF call, 1000' above
approach
minimums.
PNF calls, 1000' above Verify altitude. PF call,
minimums.
Check
Landingclearance
PriortoMDA,obtain/
confirm cleared to land,
call,Clearedtoland.

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
500'aboveminimum.

Call, 500'
minimums.

above

PNF calls, 500' above Verify altitude. PF call,

minimums.
Noflags
100'aboveminimums.
Call Approaching
minimums.
PNF calls, Approaching Verify altitude. PF call,
minimums.
Check.
At Minimum Descent
Call, Minimums, (state
Altitude.
timeordistance)togo.
PNF calls, Minimums, Verify altitude and time
(statetimeordistance)to ordistancetogo.PFcall,
go.
Check.
At Missed Approach
If the runway
Point.
environment is in sight,
call what you see. e.g.
Approach

lights,
continue.
Whenrunwayisinsight.
Call,Runwayinsight.
PNF calls, Runway in PFcall,Goingvisual.
Confirmgoingvisualcall
sight.
by stating, Roger,
Monitoring instruments.
Monitor

flight
instruments.
OR
Task/InitiationCue
AtMissedApproach
Point..
PNFcalls,Minimums,
goaround.

PF

PNF
Iftherunway
environmentisNOTin
sight,call,Minimums,
goaround.

PFcall,Goingaround.
Executedepartment
missedapproach
procedure.

Note:IfvisualcontactislostbeyondtheMAP,agoaroundistobeannouncedandexecutedby
thePF.

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
ApproachDeviationLimits(CalloutsafterpassingFAFor1000feetAGL)
AfterpassingtheFAFor1000feetAGLthePNFwillcalloutanywarningindications,
ordeviations,asnotedbelow.ThePFwillacknowledgewithCorrecting.IfthePFdoesnot
respondandthedeviationcontinues,thePNFwillrepeatthecall.IfthePFstilldoesnotrespond
and/orthedeviationremainsuncorrected,thePNFwilltakecontroloftheaircraftfollowingthe
secondfailuretorespondbythePF.ThechangeofcontrolwillbeannouncedbythePNF
stating,Myaircraft.
PrecisionApproach
Task/InitiationCue
1 dot right or left of
localizer
1 dot above glideslope,
anything

below
glideslope

PF

PNF
Call, 1 dot right or 1
dotleft
Call, one dot high or
lowonglideslope

PF

PNF
Call, 1 dot right or 1
dotleft
Callactualdeviation,__0
(rightor__0(left

NonPrecisionApproach
Task/InitiationCue
VOR, LOC Approach: 1
dotrightorleftofcourse
NDBApproach:5right
orleftofdesiredbearing.
(Maximum deviation
allowed10).

VisualApproachSlopeIndicator(VASI)
Task/InitiationCue
Aboveglidepathorbelow
glidepath

PF

PNF
Call, Above glidepath
orBelowglidepath

VerticalSpeed
Task/InitiationCue

PF

PNF

Safety Committee
Prototypical Safety Program Manual
Sink rate exceeds 1000
feet per minute without
corrective action initiated
byPF

Call,Sinkrate.

MissedApproachProcedure
Task/InitiationCue
PF
DH/MDA, no landing
requirements,i.e.didnot
breakout.
PNFcalls,Goaround
PFcalls,Goingaround.

PNF
PNFcalls,Goaround.

PNF calls, Climb

power.
PNF calls, Climb Immediately applies PNFconfirmspowerset,
power
maximum power and calls,Airspeed____.
accelerates to VBROC.
Calls Power set ___%,
airspeedaccelerating
ClimbPowerset,positive
PNF calls, Positive rate
rateofclimb.
ofclimb.
PNF calls, Positive rate Verifypositiverate.Call, Select gear up. Call,
ofclimb.
Gearup.
Gear selected up.
Monitor and call, Gear
indicatedup.
State initial heading and Verify and validate PF
altitude of missed heading and altitude
approach procedure callout. Call, Check.
(published or as cleared Set missed approach
byATC).CallforClimb altitudeinaltitudealerter.
check when conditions Call any deviation
permit.
observed.*Communicate
with ATC, complete
Climbcheck.
* The PNFs primary responsibility during execution of the missed approach
procedure shall be to assist the PF and to monitor the aircraft. ATC
communications should be accomplished as soon as practical, but should not
interferewiththisprimaryresponsibility.

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Prototypical Safety Program Manual
AfterLandingCheck
Task/InitiationCue
Clearofactiverunway

PF
PNF
Call, After Landing Complete checklist. Call,
check.
After Landing check
complete.

PreShutdownCheck
Task/InitiationCue
Aircraftparkedonramp.

PF
Call,
check.

PNF
PreShutdown Complete checklist. Call,
PreShutdown check
complete.

ShutdownCheck
Task/InitiationCue
PF
PreShutdown checklist Call,Shutdowncheck.
complete.

PNF
Complete checklist. Call,
Shutdown

check
complete.

ShutdownChecklist
Priortoeitherpilotleavingthecockpitandafterengine(s)shutdown,the
PIC shall designate Shutdown Checklist duties and passenger handling
requirementsbetweencrewmembers.
PostflightCheck(Pilot)
If a postflight inspection will not be accomplished by Department
maintenance personnel after the completion of the last flight of the day, the
CompanyassignedPIC,orhis/herdesignee,shallconductawalkaroundcheckof
theaircraft,notinganyoilorfuelleaks,abnormalwearordamagetotheaircraft.
AnydiscrepanciesfoundduringthiswalkaroundaretobelistedintheAML.The
Company assigned PIC will notify his/her respective Maintenance Manager if
thereisanyquestionastotheairworthinessstatusoftheaircraft.
FlightCrewDebriefings

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Prototypical Safety Program Manual
InordertocontinuouslyevaluateandimproveDepartmentflightoperations
procedures and enhance interpersonal skills, crewmembers are encouraged to
conductpostflightdebriefingsaftereachflight.Thedebriefingsshouldincludeall
crewmembersoftheflight,aspractical,andbediscussedfromtheselfdiscovery
perspective,i.e.IthinkIcouldhaveperformedbetterduringthathighworkload
situationbydistributingtasksmoreevenly.
StandardizationFlights
StandardizationflightswillbeconductedbyDepartmentStandardization
PilotsinordertoprovideamethodtoensurethattheProgramisbeingfollowedin
daytodayoperationsandtoconstantlyevaluatetheprogram.
Each Department pilot will receive, at least, one standardization flight
everysixmonths.Theseintervalsshallnotexceedeightmonths. Ifthepilotis
qualified, current, and assigned to more than one type aircraft, the six month
standardization flight will alternate between types. The minimum number of
standardizationflightsper12monthperiod,peraircraft,shallbeone.
Standardizationflightsmaybeconductedduringnormalpassengercarrying
flights. No abnormal or emergency procedures will be required as part of the
flight. These flights will involve routine practices and standard operating
procedures described herein and in the Aircraft Flight Manual for the subject
aircraft.
TheStandardizationPilotwillactasanobserverduringtheflightandwill
notbeconsideredasanassignedflightcrewmemberforthepurposeoftheflight.
ResultsofStandardizationFlights
TheStandardizationPilotwilluseaCompanyPilotStandardizationFlight
Worksheet to conduct the evaluation. This document will be utilized as the
controllingdocumentfortheflight.
Crewmembersthatarefoundtobedeficientwillbeadvisedofthespecific
deficiencies during postflight debriefing unless, in the opinion of the
standardizationpilot,thedeficiencydirectlyeffectstheoperationalsafetyofthe
flight.Ifthisisdeemedtobethecase,thestandardizationpilotwilladvisethe
flightcrewofthedeficiencyimmediatelyupondiscovery.
Intheremotecasethatthepilot(s)areunwillingorunabletoperformtheir
duties in accordance with the FAR, the AFM, the Department SOPs, or this
Manual,theywillbeadvisedofthis.Ifthesituationcannotberesolvedatthelocal

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Prototypical Safety Program Manual
level,tothesatisfactionoftheStandardizationPilot,theflightwillnotdepart,orif
alreadyairborne,willnotproceedbeyondthenextpointoflanding.
Inthisevent,theStandardizationPilotwillcontacttheChiefPilotassoon
aspractical, forresolutionofthe situation. TheChiefPilotwilldetermine the
propercourseofactiontobetakenfromthatpoint.
Successfulcompletionofastandardizationflightwillberecordedforeach
individual.TheseformswillbeforwardedtotheChiefPilotforreview,retainedin
theemployeestrainingfile.
UseofHelicopterRotorBrake
ThehelicopterrotorbrakewillnotbeusedduringAircraftEngineStartsas
anormal,everydaypractice. However,duringexcessivelyhighwinds,orother
abnormalcircumstancesatthediscretionofthePIC,therotorbrakecanbeused
duringthestartwithonlyoneenginestartedbeforerotorbrakerelease.Useofthe
rotor brake on shutdown is permissible anytime with a modulated, gradual
applicationsoastonotcausetherotortobehaltedabruptly.
CAUTION:Atnotimeshouldtherotorbrakebedependedupontokeeptherotor
stopped.Allindividualsshouldremainclearoftherotorduringenginestartswith
the rotor brake applied. Rotor brakes have been known to slip requiring
immediateactiononthepartofthepilottoreleasethebrakefullyorshutthe
enginedown.