Plan low-level flight operations

1. Low-level flight hazards are identified, evaluated and treated in accordance with aviation risk management processes

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Task requirements are confirmed through consultation with stakeholders involved in low-level operations

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Aeroplane type and performance capability are confirmed as appropriate for task

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Effects of fatigue and physical health on pilot performance are assessed and allowed for when planning low-level operations

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Actual and forecast weather conditions are analysed and applied to low-level operations

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Area of operations is identified using chart and geographical features

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Geographical characteristics of area of flying operations are assessed to ensure safe completion of task

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Location of ground support personnel is confirmed

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Appropriate reconnaissance and pre-manoeuvre or other relevant checks are conducted prior to descending below 500 feet AGL

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Operate aeroplane safely during low-level flight operations

1. Pre-flight inspections are performed and aircraft serviceability determined prior to flight

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Navigation systems are initialised and data validity checks conducted

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Aeroplane is operated correctly and safely in accordance with aircraft operating requirements

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Aeroplane take-off is conducted within authorised operational conditions and limitations

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Manoeuvre aeroplane at lowlevel

1. Low-level flight manoeuvres are performed safely using pre-planned manoeuvres at planned altitudes

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Effects of wind velocity, false horizons, rising ground and mountainous terrain are managed and control of aeroplane correctly maintained

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Pilot’s visual attention is focused outside the cockpit

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Lookout is maintained using a systematic scan technique at a rate determined by traffic density, visibility and/or terrain

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Natural horizon is used as primary attitude reference

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Nose of aircraft is cleared to ensure forward visibility when appropriate

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Situational awareness is maintained at all times during low-level manoeuvres

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Aeroplane is safely manoeuvred adjacent to power lines and wires

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Obstacles are identified and are appropriately and safely avoided

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Personnel, animals, vehicles and buildings are identified and are appropriately and safely avoided

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Height is maintained by visual reference to the earth’s surface when below 500 AGL

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Weather conditions are monitored and appropriate responses made

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Fuel status is monitored and appropriate responses made

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Local and published noise abatement requirements and curfews are observed

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Undertake low-level, straight and level flight

1. Aircraft energy state and inertia is managed to maintain safe low-level flight

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Wind velocity is estimated and is appropriately taken into account during low-level manoeuvres

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Height is adjusted and effects of rising and descending terrain are considered during low level, straight and level flight

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Aircraft drift is recognised and compensated for during low-level flight

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Obstructions are identified and are appropriately and safely avoided

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Execute low-level turns

1. Aeroplane is turned at normal cruise speed at angles of bank up to 60 degrees (45 degrees for multi-engine aircraft)

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Clearance scan is performed prior to manoeuvre commencement

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Power is adjusted to maintain required height over terrain

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Effects of flight over water or featureless terrain are managed

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Height is adjusted and effects of rising and descending terrain are considered during low-level turns

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Effects of gradient wind are compensated for and rollout is anticipated to complete low-level turn

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Execute simulated forced landing from below 500 feet AGL

1. Emergency situations requiring a forced landing are identified

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Immediate actions are performed in accordance with aircraft flight manual (AFM) and/or pilot’s operating handbook (POH)

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Aircraft control is maintained during simulated aircraft forced landing

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Landing area within safe emergency flight distance is selected and appropriate action plan formulated

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Emergency procedures are performed in accordance with AFM/POH and established action plan

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Air traffic service and other traffic are advised of intentions during emergency

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Aeroplane is landed in accordance with the AFM/POH and established action plan

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Operate at low level in hilly terrain

1. Aeroplane is safely manipulated at low level in hilly terrain

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Safe operating heights relevant to low-level flight operation type are established and maintained

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Safe contour flying techniques are applied

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Appropriate natural markers to aid situational awareness are identified and selected

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Safe approaches to higher ground, including identification of escape routes, are used during low-level flight operations

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Safe turns in hilly terrain are conducted in accordance with accepted flight handling techniques

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Situational awareness of effects of wind and turbulence in hilly terrain, including lee effects, is maintained and managed during low-level flight operations

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Situational awareness of illusions in hilly terrain, including false horizon effect and shadows, are maintained and managed during low-level flight operations

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