Helicopters, simulators, and training

Abstract

Although there are many commonalties between fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, both in terms of their performance and the missions they fly, their extensive differences demand that we recognize the training requirements that are unique to rotary-wing vehicles. In addition, the rotary-wing industry is made up of many widely distributed small operators whose training needs and logistics vary widely from those of the well-ordered, capital intensive, air carriers. The relative absence of large operators in the rotary-wing industry is a source of challenge to training-equipment manufactures and to the federal agencies responsible for supporting and regulating the development of aviation. In anticipation of growth in the rotary-wing industry, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed new rules, Part 142 Title 14 CFR, which will authorize and regulate certified training centers. The objectives of the new rules are to increase simulator use, eliminate the need for simulator exceptions, standardize training, and standardize the FAA's oversight of training.