Rotor Tip #7 Helicopter Emergencies! "Know your aircraft!"

Apr 12, 2023

     Rotor Tips brought to you by the HOGS No Go Decision Button! When you feel the pressure to fly, but know the right choice is to stay on the ground! Hit the HOGS No Go and "Live To Fly Another Day"

     Our next rotor tip is to know your aircraft. Some of the best applicants that I've seen over the years are those that are really familiar with the rotorcraft flight manual, the RFM or the POH, whatever you want to call it.

     Those applicants that show up in their own aircraft, well, they probably have a slight advantage over someone who is renting from the local flight school. This happens to be one of my least favorite statements from the applicant.

     That is, well, this is probably the last time I'll be flying this make and model because I'm buying my own helicopter when I get home.

 

     What they really are trying to imply is that they really don't need to be that familiar with the helicopter that they showed up for in the check ride. I want to let the applicants know that this is incorrect thinking. You should treat that this make, and model honestly is the one that's going to get you safely home by yourself if you happen to have flown to the check ride that day.

     I hear the excuse a lot when they say, "Well, I'm just here long enough to get transitioned into the aircraft. I want to use this helicopter to take a check ride in." I really want them to understand and to know the aircraft. I feel that the emergency procedures in the RFM are very important. I will ask applicants if these specific light illuminates, what does it mean and what is the pilot's corrective action? Because in the event of an actual emergency, you will not have time to refer to the RFM for guidance.

     We're only 500 feet above the ground, we're a thousand feet above the ground. In the event of an engine failure, you won't have time to go grab the RFM and reference it. There are certain portions of the emergency section that I feel that you do need to memorize, and not only to pass the oral portion of the test, but even more importantly, it could save your life. Please, know your aircraft.

Kenny Keller is a name that is synonymous with helicopter flight training. He is the creator and owner of Helicopter Online Ground School (HOGS), LLC, which has been providing online helicopter training for more than a decade. He is an experienced helicopter pilot with over 20 years of experience, and his expertise is evident in the quality of training that he provides to his students.

The success of HOGS is evident in the number of students that have successfully completed their training and gone on to become successful helicopter pilots. The HOGS members have a high success rate in passing their FAA check rides, which is a testament to the quality of the training that they receive from HOGS.

One of the unique features of HOGS is the "No Go Decision" button. This button is designed to help pilots make the right decision when it comes to flying in adverse weather conditions. The button is prominently displayed on the HOGS website and is designed to be a reminder to pilots that safety should always come first.

Kenny developed the "No Go Decision" button based on his years of experience as a helicopter pilot. He understands the importance of making the right decision when it comes to flying in adverse weather conditions, and he wanted to provide a tool that would help pilots make the right decision.

The "No Go Decision" button is just one example of the commitment that he has to safety and quality training. He understands the importance of providing his students with the best possible training and tools to ensure their success as helicopter pilots.

In addition to his work with HOGS, Kenny is also the author of several books on helicopter flight training. His books are widely regarded as some of the best resources for helicopter pilots who are looking to improve their skills and knowledge. Get yours by clicking here! https://www.helicopterground.com/store/imYCbzcp

Overall, Kenny Keller is a leader in the helicopter flight training industry, and his dedication to safety and quality training is evident in everything that he does. The success of HOGS and its members is a testament to his expertise and commitment to providing the best possible training to his students.