BFR and PPL Questions Flashcards
What are your responsibilities when operating a helicopter at low level?
Ceiling: vertical at least 600 feet; Visibility: horizontal at least 1500 m.
The ceiling and flight visibility is
– at least 600 feet and at least 1500 m respectively
– for helicopters, less than 600 feet and less than 1500 m respectively if the helicopter is operated at a speed that will give adequate opportunity to observe other traffic or any obstructions in order to avoid collisions
The aircraft is equipped with two-way radio capable of communicating with ATC on the appropriate frequency
The operation is conducted
– compliance with an ATC clearance and any ATC instructions
– only during the day
– clear of clouds.
** Bona fide reason
Aircraft nuisance…noise…animals
Speed where you can operate safely
Rotor downwash**
What equipment must be on board when operating a helicopter?
Two-way radio capable of communicating with ATC
What are the operational conditions for flying a helicopter at low level?
Conducted during the day, clear of clouds, and in compliance with ATC clearance and instructions.
Viz
Vertical 600m
Horizontal 1500m
At a safe speed
What five documents must be carried in the aircraft at all times?
Weight and balance data form
Aircraft flight manual
Current airworthiness certificate
Radio station equipment levels approval form
Technical log
What does RA stand for and what does it entail?
Review of Airworthiness
For standard or restricted category certificates of airworthiness, the RA comprises an assessment and inspection, of the aircraft’s conformity to its type certificated or properly modified state, its maintenance records and its condition. Advisory Circular AC43-1 Revision 6 15 9 December 2021 CAA of NZ A maintenance logbook review confirms that since the previous review of airworthiness, all necessary maintenance, including design changes and applicable airworthiness directives have been completed and correctly recorded in accordance with the requirements of Part 43, and that the aircraft’s current maintenance status complies with its maintenance programme. This includes the airworthiness limitations section of the manufacturer’s ICA and any embodied modification/STC holder’s ICA. The RA is to be carried out within the preceding 12 months, or for aircraft not operated for hire or reward within the preceding 24 months.
Includes assessment and inspection of conformity to type certification, maintenance records, and condition.
What is the maximum time frame for conducting a Review of Airworthiness?
12 months - Within the preceding 12 months
24 months for non-hire aircraft.
What are the met minima for operating in Class G airspace by day?
[Details not provided in the original text]
Where can you find NOTAMs relating to Queenstown Airport?
Pre-flight briefing.
- VFR Approach procedure
- Aeronautical Information Service
- Runway Closure
- Meteorological Service not available
What does the transponder code 7500, 7600 and 7700 signify?
Interference / Hijack
Communicaation
Emergency
Can you legally fly with an expired BFR or expired medical?
You can fly as a student pilot if your BFR has expired, solo under supervision.
Medical
No, you cannot fly with a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) helicopter with an expired medical certificate. You need a valid Class 2 medical certificate (or a DL9 for PPL privileges) to exercise the privileges of a PPL
What are the height restrictions for flying over non-congested areas under Part 91?
At least 500 feet above the surface.
What is the minimum height over cities, towns, and settlements?
At least 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle.
600 ft horizontal.
What minimum height restrictions apply over a non-congested area ?
a) Under Part 91?
Minimum height over cities, towns, and settlements at least 1,000 feet above the highest obstacle when flying over cities, towns, or settlements
This rule does not apply when taking off or landing.
Minimum height over other areas
Aircraft must fly at least 500 feet above the surface when flying over any area other than a congested area of a city, town, or settlement
This rule does not apply when operating at an aviation event
What minimum height restrictions apply over a non-congested area - and when can they be ignored
According to Civil Aviation Rules Part 91, the primary exception to height restrictions allows for lower flying during specific situations like emergencies, agricultural operations, police operations, or when flying within designated low flying training areas, where the purpose of the flight requires a lower altitude, provided it does not endanger people or property on the ground; generally, the minimum height over populated areas is 1000 feet, while over other areas it’s 500 feet
What is evening civil twilight, and where can you find the times for it?
Period between sunset and when the sun is 6 degrees below the horizon; available in the AIP New Zealand GEN 2.7 Daylight Tables.
Who do you use for flight following?
Wanaka Heli staff or a trusted person.
Trac Plus via starlink mini in the helicopter giving position data every 15 seconds. Have multiple people trained in flight following.
How can you confirm that your aircraft Flight Manual is current?
Check revision status on the manual, consult the manufacturer’s website, verify with local aviation authority.
To confirm your aircraft Flight Manual is current, check the revision status on the manual itself, regularly consult the aircraft manufacturer’s website for updates and amendments, and verify the information with your local aviation authority to ensure you have the latest version relevant to your aircraft registration; this includes checking for any new service bulletins or technical publications issued by the manufacturer that might affect your flight manual information
What weather information products do you use when planning a flight?
AOPA
Pre Flight
Met Service
Windy
Flowx
VUW
Webcams
What Weight & Balance system do you use?
iBal or Paper.
What is the maximum allowable weight for each passenger in your aircraft? (MAUW)
108 kg
Is there a Maximum Seat Weight for your aircraft and if so, what is that limit?
80kg
How long is your BFR valid for?
24 months.
Every private pilot must complete a Biennial Flight Review (BFR) every 24 months to retain currency. This process involves: Meeting with a flight instructor to review knowledge in the classroom. Completing an in-flight proficiency check to demonstrate your skills.
Valid for 24 Months.
Can sit it 60 days before it is due.
What actions should you take if the LOW FUEL warning light illuminates?
LIGHT 12 Litres remaining, 16 minutes of flying time.
RESERVE 13 Litres, 20 Mins
What are ADs and where can you find applicable ones?
Airworthiness Directives; check the AD Schedule on the CAA website.
“ADs” stand for “Airworthiness Directives,” which are legally enforceable rules issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to address unsafe conditions on an aircraft, and you can find out if any apply to your aircraft by checking the “AD Schedule” on the CAA website, specifically within the “Airworthiness Directives” section dedicated to aircraft information
What class of Medical Certificate is required for exercising the privileges of your license?
Class 2 (DL9).
PPL holders on a DL9 medical can carry 5 passengers, unless they are performing an aerobatic manoeuvre above 3,000 feet, in which case no passengers are allowed.
What are the limitations on a pilot regarding weather conditions?
Minimum visibility, cloud ceiling restrictions, and limitations on severe weather.
As PIC you have significant limitations regarding weather conditions you can fly in, including minimum visibility requirements, cloud ceiling restrictions, and limitations on flying in severe weather like thunderstorms, heavy rain, fog, or snow depending on your pilot license and the type of flight operation; always prioritizing safety and adhering to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations outlined in “Part 91” of the Civil Aviation
At what height can you safely carry out a 180-degree autorotation?
700 ft.
What three things are required to enter Vortex Ring State?
- Rate of descent
- Airspeed
- Power
Rate of decent greater than 300 ft/min
Airspeed less than 30 knots
Power being used.
Note that vortex ring is possible when the wollie has dropped
What are the symptoms of the onset of VRS and how do you manage it?
Slight vibration plus increasing rate of descent
- Drop collective, forward cyclic and fly out of it forward
- Vuichard method
Describe the Vuichard recovery technique
Traditional Recovery:
Traditionally, pilots are taught to reduce power by lowering the collective and accelerating forward to escape the vortex.
Vuichard Recovery:
The Vuichard recovery technique, developed by Claude Vuichard, aims to minimize altitude loss during recovery by:
Increasing Collective: Increase collective to takeoff power to climb.
Applying Lateral Cyclic: Simultaneously apply cyclic in the opposite direction of the main rotor’s rotation (left cyclic for clockwise rotors) to establish a 15-20 degree bank.
Maintaining Heading: Use pedals to maintain heading and counter torque.
Lateral Movement: The combination of thrust from the tail rotor and the shallow bank angle produces lateral movement to escape the vortex.
Recovery Completion: The recovery is complete when the rotor disc reaches the upwind part of the vortex.
How do you know if your helicopter has been released to service following maintenance?
Certified mechanic completes repairs, inspections, and signs off on maintenance release form.
A helicopter is considered “released to service” following maintenance when a certified mechanic has completed all necessary repairs, inspections, and documentation, and has signed off on a maintenance release form indicating that the aircraft is airworthy and safe to fly; this form usually includes a “return to service” date and may also have a “next inspection due” date.
Key points to look for:
Maintenance logbook entry:
The completed maintenance tasks and findings should be documented in the aircraft’s logbook with the mechanic’s signature and certification number.
Maintenance release tag:
Some operators may also attach a physical tag to the helicopter indicating it has been released to service.
Visual inspection:
A thorough visual inspection of the helicopter should be conducted to verify that all repairs are complete and no obvious issues remain
How would you confirm that your VNCs are current?
Check dates.
What is the max fuel you can carry before you exceed the MAUW when all the seats are occupied, with each passenger weighing 90kg?
109 litres
78kgs
What is the required number of VHF radios under Part 135 in Class C or D airspace?
Two operational VHF radio.
- Part 135 regulations:
These regulations generally state that a single operational VHF radio is sufficient for most airspace classifications, including Class C and D, as long as it allows for communication with ATC. - Airspace classifications:
Class C and D airspace typically require two-way radio communication with ATC, which can be achieved with a single VHF radio
What is the required number of VHF radios under Part 91 in Class C or D airspace?
One operational VHF radio.
- According to Part 91, a single operational VHF radio is sufficient to fly in Class C or D airspace, as long as it allows for proper communication with ATC.
Important points to remember: - Always check the specific regulations for your region:
While the general rule is one VHF radio for Class C and D airspace under Part 91, it’s crucial to consult the latest regulations applicable to your location. - Consider additional radios for safety:
Although not required by regulation, pilots often choose to carry a second VHF radio for redundancy, especially in complex airspace
Under what circumstances are you allowed to fly below 500 ft AGL?
In designated low flying zones.
Under what circumstances are you allowed to fly below 500 ft AGL?
Low flying refers to any flight at or below 500 feet AGL that may be practised only in designated low flying zones.
Flying below the minimum height might be breaking the law. Unless an aircraft has permission, it cannot fly: lower than 1000 feet over suburban areas (such as cities and towns) lower than 500 feet over other areas.
taking off and landing
What are the currency requirements for carrying passengers?
To carry passengers with a PPL(H) in New Zealand, you need a current PPL(H) license, a current Class 2 medical, and to have completed at least 50 hours of helicopter flight time, including 20 hours dual and 15 hours solo.
At least 3 take-offs and landings in the same aircraft type within the last 90 days, or demonstrate competence in take-off and landing to an A or B category instructor.
- PPL(H) License & Medical:
PPL(H) License: You need a Private Pilot License (Helicopter) to act as pilot-in-command for non-fare-paying passengers.
Class 2 Medical: You need a current Class 2 medical certificate.
Language Proficiency: If you wish to have a language proficiency level endorsed on your license, you must have demonstrated English language proficiency to at least Level 4 (Operational) in all language categories specified in the ICAO Language Proficiency Rating Scale.
- Flight Experience Requirements:
Total Flight Time: You must have completed a minimum of 50 hours of helicopter flight time.
Dual Flight Time: At least 20 hours of that time must be flown dual with an instructor.
Solo Flight Time: At least 15 hours must be flown solo.
PIC Experience: Pilots wishing to carry passengers must have completed a minimum of 25 hours Flight Experience as PIC.
What should you do if you hear a nearby aircraft transmitting with a very weak radio?
Ask to repeat, esp if not on 119.10
Ask them to repeat. Inform them that their transmission is weak/unreadable.
Also transmit your position, height and track. They may be able to hear you and they may be close
What are the allowable ‘doors off’ configurations for your aircraft?
Operation with one or two door(s) removed is allowed with no additional limitation in the whole flight envelope.
Each door is equipped with a restraining strap which enables partial opening for venting purpose.
Operation is allowed with no additional limitation with one or two doors unlatched in this way, partially opened, secured by the restraining strap.
In all these cases, make sure that all harnesses are buckled and secure all loose objects. Warn passenger to keep head, arms and objects inside the cabin to avoid high velocity airstream.
Cockpit hygiene
How would you know what is contained in the aircraft first aid kit?
Check it; must be checked every 12 months.
What is the Flight Manual procedure for dealing with a fire in the cabin?
Land immediately, turn off cabin heat, use onboard fire extinguisher, evacuate if necessary.
According to the Cabri G2 Flight Manual, if a cabin fire is suspected, the pilot should immediately land the aircraft, turn off the cabin heat, and use the onboard fire extinguisher to attempt to contain the fire if possible; if the fire cannot be controlled, evacuate the aircraft as quickly as possible; always prioritize landing the helicopter safely and following the emergency procedures outlined in the manual
What are the Pressure and Density Altitudes today?
Show workings …
It is important because when density altitude is high less lift is generated by the rotors for any given power setting than at standard conditions and the power output of the engines is also reduced
PA - Altimeter reading at 1013
DA - adjusted for temp on non standard day
What is CAR Part 1 that applies to you?
Definitions :
Part 1 contains the definitions and abbreviations used in the Civil Aviation Rules but note that some Parts include additional definitions and abbreviations.
What is CAR Part 43?
General Maintenance rules
What is CAR Part 12?
Part 12 Accidents, Incidents, and Statistics
Part 12 is about the notification, investigation, and reporting of accidents and incidents. It also includes requirements for the reporting of aircraft operating and statistical data.
What are the reporting requirements for an accident or incident?
- Accident: notify CAA within 10 days
- Incident: notify CAA within 14 days
Each pilot-in-command of an aircraft that is involved in an accident or, if that person is fatally or seriously injured, or if the aircraft is missing, the operator, shall notify the Authority of the accident as soon as practicable.
What is CAR Part 61?
Pilot Licences and ratings
How do you determine if you have enough power to land at an altitude higher than where you took off from?
Before you depart. QNH, Temp, DA and PA
Once Airborne - Hover power checks
a) Before you depart
Pressure altitude calculations ( in ground effect..but I would use out of ground effect for margin) for the helicopter at the landing altitude
b) Once airborne
Hover check at the altitude with plenty of altitude under the helicopter before trying to land
What are the rules that apply to refueling your helicopter?
Forbidden in the G2 while engine is running and rotors spinning.
What are the rules regarding life jackets when flying over water?
Must be carried beyond gliding distance from shore.
If a single-engine aircraft on Air Operations flies more than 10 nm beyond gliding/autorotative distance from shore, they must carry a life raft, wear life jacket, and for helicopters, have flotation gear fitted or wear immersion suit.
Readily accessible.
What does TM mean on a VNC?
Transponder Mandatory.
What does FRQ refer to in weather terms?
Frequent
Are you allowed to enter a Danger Area?
Yes, with due consideration of the danger and authority from the controlling authority.
Yes, providing due consideration to the nature of the danger has been given and that danger won’t affect the aircrafts safety
According to the NZ CAA, you are technically allowed to enter a Danger Area, but only after carefully considering the potential hazards present within it, as entering such an area is at your own risk; you should only do so if absolutely necessary and after due consideration of the danger involved
Can you enter a Low Flying Zone for a joyride?
No, you cannot enter a low flying zone unless you have the necessary authorization and are meeting the specific conditions set by the designated authority for that zone; generally, pilots should not enter a low flying zone without proper clearance as it is considered restricted airspace
Can you perform a ‘lollie drop’ for a birthday party?
Yes, if you have made reasonable precautions to ensure no danger to persons or property on the ground
What are the met minima for daytime operations at Queenstown Airport?
Distance from cloud. 500ft vertically and 2 km horizontally
Visibility 5 km
If you have a Night endorsement can you legally carry passengers between the hours of ECT and MCT under Part 135
Under Part 135? Yes
To operate at night under Part 135, pilots must hold the appropriate pilot license with a valid night rating, meaning they must have completed the necessary training and meet the required flight time in night conditions
If you have a Night endorsement can you legally carry passengers between the hours of ECT and MCT under part 91
Under Part 91? Yes
Within Part 91, specific sections detail the required aircraft lights (like position lights, anti-collision lights) and instrumentation needed for night VFR operations
What is CAR Part 67?
Part 67 Medical Standards and Certification
Part 67 has all the requirements about the issue of medical certificates.
What is CAR Part 61?
Part 61 Pilot Licences and Ratings
Part 61 prescribes rules relating to the requirements for the issue and holding of pilot licences and ratings, and student pilots. This includes the conditions, privileges, and limitations associated with those licences and ratings, and student pilots.
What is CAR Part 91?
Part 91 General Operating and Flight Rules
Part 91 is important because it’s the basis of general operating and flight rules in New Zealand.
What is CAR Part 119?
Part 119 Air Operator Certification
Part 119 stipulates the requirements for operators to become certificated in air transport operations, and commercial transport operations. It also lays out what they need to do, to maintain that certification.
What is CAR Part 135?
Part 135 Air Operations Helicopters and Small Aeroplanes
Part 135 lays out the requirements a certificated Part 119 airline air operator, or a certificated general aviation air operator must meet to carry out helicopter and small aeroplane operations, using:
an aeroplane with a seating configuration of nine seats or less, excluding any required crew member seat; and a MCTOW of 5700 kg or less, except for a single engine aeroplane used for an air operation carrying a passenger under IFR
a helicopter.
What is Met Minima at Aerodromes (WF)
Controlled
Day and Night: 1500ft ceiling / 5 km
Uncontrolled
Day: 600ft ceiling / 1500 visibility
Night: 1500ft ceiling / 8 km Visibilty.
