9-Nov-2015 Source: NZ CAA
The CAA says new requirements for pilots flying Robinson helicopters will help prevent accidents.
Graeme Harris, The Director of Civil Aviation (CAA) has determined that additional safety awareness training will be required for pilots flying Robinson R22 and R44 helicopters.
In response to a Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) recommendation we reviewed the status of the training that pilots flying Robinson helicopters in New Zealand were receiving. He said.
This identified the need to take action to improve the level and consistency of training delivered by the aviation industry.
Mr Harris stated The CAA does not take these decisions lightly and prior to introducing the new requirements, we consulted with the aviation sector.
80% of the feedback we received from the industry was supportive of the CAA’s intentions.
Central to the changes is the need to increase the level of training for pilots flying Robinson R22 and R44 helicopters in New Zealand. One of the main changes will see the minimum solo flight hours needed in a Robinson R22 or R44 helicopter double from 10 hours to 20 hours.
These changes see New Zealand align with requirements already in place in the United States, where the Robinson Helicopter Company designs and manufactures these aircraft. He said.
Whilst the training requirements will be mandatory we have given operators time to implement them. This recognises that while there is need to address the issues the CAA review identified as soon as possible, the practical reality is that it will take time for the new training to be implemented and delivered. The new requirements will be mandatory from 1 July 2016 for new pilots and
progressively across the industry after that, although we are pleased to note many operators have already begun to implement them. Mr Harris said.
Additional information: All Robinson R22 and R44 pilots will be required to undergo Robinson safety awareness training, in line with new CAA requirements. Key elements of the training include:
Here is a link to the relevant information: http://www.caa.govt.nz/pilots/robinson_helicopter_safety.html
What does this mean to pilots?