Improper Endorsements...IT'S A HUGE PROBLEM
Sep 26, 2024In the world of flight training, particularly for helicopter pilots, the significance of high-quality instruction and precise endorsements cannot be overstated. New from Helicopter Online Ground School (H.O.G.S.), hosted by Kenny, sheds light on the critical issues plaguing the flight training industry. Kenny underscores that the lack of quality instruction and improper endorsements are not just administrative oversights; they pose significant risks to the safety and legality of flight operations.
The Problem with Inaccurate Endorsements
Kenny begins by highlighting a pervasive problem: many flight instructors are not providing accurate or complete endorsements in student logbooks. This problem is more widespread than many might think. In the episode, he recounts numerous instances where students came to his flight school with logbooks in disarray – missing essential endorsements for completed flights, sometimes for over a year.
Consequences of Improper Endorsements
The implications of improper endorsements are severe. Students unknowingly engage in illegal flying practices due to these oversights. For example, an endorsement for a solo flight or a specific mission was not properly logged, making the flight legally non-compliant. This leaves students vulnerable to regulatory repercussions and nullifies the training time they have invested both financially and physically.
The Importance of FAR/AIM Compliance
Kenny emphasizes the importance of following the Federal Aviation Regulations/Aeronautical Information Manual (FAR/AIM) systematically. He narrates instances where students, under the guidance of negligent instructors, failed to meet the requirements laid out by FAR/AIM for milestones such as cross-country flights. An example Kenny provides is a student needing a 2.0-hour cross-country flight but completing only 1.8 hours, which would not meet the regulatory requirements.
Collaboration Between Students and Instructors
Kenny urges students to actively participate in verifying their training logbooks alongside their instructors. This collaborative approach not only educates the student on regulatory requirements but also serves as a fail-safe to catch any oversight on the part of the instructor. Verifying each requirement step by step ensures that no detail is overlooked and that all flying is conducted within legal parameters.
Accountability and Professionalism in Instruction
A significant portion of Kenny's discussion focuses on the accountability of flight instructors. There are many dedicated and proficient instructors, but the industry is also marred by those who are negligent. These instructors not only waste the time and money of their students but also undermine the integrity of the training process. An instructor’s primary role should be to ensure all training is conducted correctly and within the regulations.
Tools and Resources
Kenny advises instructors and students to make use of available resources like the FAR/AIM manual and endorsements guide (Human Form 61.65), which can be downloaded for free. He humorously likens the process to kindergarten-level education – straightforward with a step-by-step approach to ensure all requirements are met. Armed with these resources and a diligent attitude, both instructors and students can ensure the training regimen is both legal and educational.
The Financial and Time Costs of Negligence
Improper endorsements often result in significant financial and time costs for students. Time spent training without proper endorsements is essentially lost, as those hours may not be recognized during check-rides or evaluations. Consequently, students may find themselves needing to redo portions of their training, costing additional money and time – a frustrating and disheartening reality.
Flight School Integrity
Flight schools, too, suffer repetitional harm when associated with negligent practices. It is crucial for schools to uphold stringent checks and balances to ensure all students are progressing through their training with the proper endorsements and following all regulations. The professional credibility of a flight school is built on consistent and accurate training regimes.
Kenny’s impassioned rant serves as a wake-up call for both flight instructors and students. The onus of ensuring legal, safe, and high-quality flight training falls on both parties. Instructors must exhibit diligence and professionalism, while students must take an active role in understanding and verifying their own training progress. The overarching goal is to cultivate a safer aviation industry where all pilots are trained to the highest standards, fully compliant with all regulatory requirements.
By adhering to these principles, the flight training industry can safeguard its reputation and ensure the next generation of helicopter pilots are well-prepared and legally endorsed to take to the skies.
