MY 2 CENTS
NVGs changed everything. Under the original HAI exemption, we remained compliant for Part 135 operations without NVGs in the dark with an inaccurate radar altimeter, but not with NVGs that would allow the pilot to see the ground, which enhances safety of flight by avoiding terrain and potential low clouds, etc.
Here is an example, in the form of a question,
where common sense was
lacking on the 5G exemption issue: If an HAA operator is exempt from 5G limitations and allowed to fly NVGs for the safety of a single passenger and crew, why would a Part 135 helicopter with nine or fewer passengers have a lesser requirement for safety and be unable to fly NVGs to aid in terrain and weather avoidance?
The FAA states that until 5G radar altimeter solutions are more available, the exemption process is valid. The radar altimeter industry is ready now with 5G solutions.
Companies like FreeFlight
Systems, a radar altimeter manufacturer, now offer 5G-compliant, software-based radar altimeter solutions for helicopters.
Hey FAA, thank you!
On June 23, 2023, the FAA reissued Exemption Number 18973B to HAI on behalf of the industry. Updates to this exemption took an unexpected turn in the form of a common-sense approach to the 5G challenges the helicopter industry has been facing on the issue. Within the update, the FAA stated, ”This exemption applies only to Part 91 operators and Part 119 certificate holders authorized to conduct Part 135 operations.”
What does this mean for you? If you’re operating Part 91 or 135, this exemption applies to you. Within the exemption, you can continue to fly Part 135 operations. For the NVG operators, this exemption expands NVG operational approval from just HAA operations to anyone operating under Part 91 as well. Not perfect, but an improvement!
Wow...a common-sense solution that is both convenient in process and improves operational safety.
Randy Rowles has been an FAA pilot examiner for 20 years for all helicopter certificates and ratings. He holds an FAA Gold Seal Flight Instructor Certificate, NAFI Master Flight Instructor designation, and was the 2013 recipient of the HAI Flight Instructor of the Year Award. Rowles is currently the owner of the Helicopter Institute. He can be reached at randyrowlesdpe@
gmail.com
rotorpro.com
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