Australian specs for MCC(H) simulators released
On 13 Sep '19, CASA sent out Edition 1 of Standards for FSTD - MCC Training - Helicopters.
In September 2014 the MCC was required by some licence holders; but by September 2015 the MCC rules were applicable to all pilots. Unfortunately the standards for a helicopter MCC simulator were not released. Although it appears exemptions were later given to some of training organisations to conduct this training. Now four years later, the regulator has issued standards for a helicopter simulator capable of conducting MCC training. It would appear at first glance, standards are based on the popular AW139 helicopter, although specifications are still known as generic only.
This is good news for the helicopter industry, because with an increasing number of heavier helicopters requiring two pilot crews; and an annual attrition rate nudging around 5%, only adds to the looming shortage of pilots in this category. Hopefully, this will clear the air so that future simulator instructors and testing offices can be trained and approved. As most of these folks are approaching retirement age, the attrition rate this group would be uncomfortably high.
More soon