Flight Test Exercises - Ex. 12 - Transitions

Aim

To determine that the candidate can achieve smooth and accurate transitions from and to the hover.

Description

The helicopter will be accelerated to a climb, or decelerated from a descent, smoothly and safely, using minimum power and attitude changes while demonstrating awareness of the Height/Velocity Chart profiles. Transitions will be normally assessed during other items in the flight test such as the circuit.

Performance Criteria

Assessment will be based on the candidate's ability to carry out:

1. transitions to the climb from the hover facing into wind:
   
   
   1. controlling drift, yaw, and sink;
   2. avoiding abrupt or major attitude and/or power changes;
   3. operating within the manufacturer's limitations;

B. transitions from forward flight to the hover facing into wind, maintaining a constant approach angle, and avoiding:

1. drift or yaw;
2. abrupt or major attitude and/or power changes; and
3. exceeding manufacturer's limitations.