Days 3 and 4


The third and fourth days were jam-packed with more valuable information and in-depth discussions on topics such as vortex rings and the mechanics and aerodynamics of autorotations, with a strong focus on energy management. An additional emphasis was placed on the over-teaching of autorotations, which in many cases has led to more disadvantages than merit. The instructor staff pointed out that emergency procedures for their products vary in number from 28 to 33, depending on the specific airframe. In their observations, only a very few of those emergency procedures are actually being taught because there is a misconception that “autos fix everything,” and that simply isn’t the case. Several accident cases were reviewed, showing instances of passengers being hurt and/or bent metal, all because the pilot had overresponded to a situation.


The flying portion of the course also started on Day 3, and it was no letdown. A strong emphasis on precision flying was the theme, with hover maneuvers being at the forefront of the first flight period. Next up was one of the most thorough in-flight discussions and demonstrations of responding to low rotor RPM that I have ever experienced. After each instructor’s explanation and demonstration, the instructor pilots were required to explain and demonstrate the procedures in the same manner while emphasizing the importance of standardization. Remember: this is a pass or fail course.


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