A. Documents - Airworthiness.
Ensure that questions asked are relative to the helicopter being used for the flight test.
B. Helicopter Performance.
The candidate may use the Flight Manual to determine information other than
essential performance speeds listed in the flight test guide as memory items.
Record the answers given to questions regarding performance speeds so that, during the flight test, the
actual speeds flown in the appropriate items may be compared. Keep questions relating to the Flight Manual
operational, particularly if the conditions of temperature, wind strength, etc. existing at the time of
flight test can be utilized.
C. Weight and Balance, Loading.
Make this a practical exercise and relate the weight and balance problem to the proposed cross-country
flight (Exercise 20). Remember
that the time required computing the weight and balance is not normally part of the 45-minute time limit
allowed in Exercise 20.
The candidate should also be asked to correct an out of C of G situation, and questioned to determine
understanding of extreme C of G locations and the resulting effect on helicopter handling/performance.
Should there be any doubt in the examiner's mind with regard to the completed weight and balance form
presented by a candidate, the examiner should determine the level of knowledge by thorough questioning in
this area.
D. Pre-flight Inspection.
It is suggested that after the candidate has completed the pre-flight check, a
few questions should be asked relating to the helicopter used for the flight test. The effect of the air
filter being blocked, its location, etc. are examples. Determine if the candidate knows the function of all
intakes, screens, filters, etc. The candidate should be questioned with regard to the appropriate action to
be taken if an unsatisfactory item is detected during the pre-flight inspection.
The failure by the candidate to visually confirm that there is sufficient fuel and oil for the intended
flight is disqualifying and will constitute a failure of the flight test. It is intended that the visual fuel
check be an actual check of the tank (or tanks) as opposed to just a check of the fuel gauges. If the
helicopter design dictates that visual checks are not practicable, the examiner may accept fuel chits, fuel
logs, etc., which in the examiner’s judgement meet the confirmation requirements.
The candidate is expected to conduct an oral passenger safety briefing at this time. Should the candidate
omit the briefing, the examiner will ask the candidate to provide one. This situation will be assessed as a
major error and the final assessment awarded will depend upon the quality and effectiveness of the briefing.
E. Engine Start/Run-up - Use of Check Lists.
Check to see if the candidate uses the checklist provided in the helicopter. If the examiner does not
agree with the content of the checklist, the candidate should not be penalized. This would be an item for
the examiner to discuss with the training unit or establishment, and if necessary the Regional Flight
Training Section. The check carried out by a candidate should cover at least the items mentioned in the
appropriate Flight Manual. The candidate should be questioned at this time to determine what action would be
taken if the checks revealed a problem (e.g. excessive magneto-drop, instruments not indicating when anti-ice
or carburetor heat controls are selected and/or reset).
Note: A check of flight controls for freedom and the correct movement of the corresponding rotor blades is mandatory and will be conducted before flight. Should the candidate neglect this
check, the examiner will ask the candidate to perform it and a major deviation will be noted.
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