This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to control a helicopter on the ground in compliance with relevant regulatory requirements of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and national operating standards.

It includes starting and stopping a helicopter engine, engaging the rotor, and controlling the main rotor disc and anti-torque system.

This unit addresses aviation technical skill requirements (physical, mental and task-management abilities) related to aircraft operational duties of flight crew and contributes to safe and effective performance in complex aviation operational environments.

Operations are conducted as part of recreational, commercial and military aircraft activities across a variety of operational contexts within the Australian aviation industry.

Work is performed independently or under limited supervision within a single-pilot or multi-crew environment.

Licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements are applicable to this unit.

ELEMENTS

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Start engine and rotor

1.1

Helicopter is positioned with a view to safety and rotor clearance when starting engine and rotors

1.2

Wind conditions are assessed for start

1.3

Pre-start checklist actions are performed

1.4

Engine start and rotor engagement are performed

1.5

Disc/rotor position is controlled during start

1.6

Engine is operated within aircraft limits

1.7

Emergencies are managed

2

Stop engine and rotor

2.1

Wind conditions are assessed and appropriate allowances made

2.2

Helicopter is positioned with a view to safety and rotor clearance when stopping engine and rotors

2.3

Engine shutdown and rotor stop are performed

2.4

Disc/rotor position is controlled during shutdown

2.5

Engine and transmission system indications are monitored and managed

3

Control main rotor disc and anti-torque system

3.1

Main rotor disc attitude is maintained during all rotor speed (RRPM) operations

3.2

Anti-torque pedals are set to compensate for main rotor torque

3.3

Rotor disc attitude and RRPM are managed while performing other tasks or actions

Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.

Range is restricted to essential operating conditions and any other variables essential to the work environment.

Not applicable.

Y – Aircraft Operation and Traffic Management