VTOL news updates - Australia

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CASA’s proposed Part 138 MOS – More on ABC News.

Heli-mustering industry raises safety concerns. Hear NT Country Hour with Matt Brann from ABC Radio News

https://www.abc.net.au/radio/program...ustry/12220426

Matt said the heli-mustering industry in northern Australia has raised concerns about proposed changes to aerial work rules. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) is proposing a new Manual of Standards for Aerial Work Operations covering helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, designed to address safety risks.

But several pilots have told ABC Rural they believe the changes would lower safety standards and could encourage rouge pilots to operate outside the rules.

Matt spoke with aviation industry veteran Mary Brown, from North Queensland Aviation Services, who said there could be some far-reaching consequences if the proposed rules are enforced. (Interview duration: 13 min, Wed 6 May 2020, 1:00 pm.)

Mary also said there are around 122 pages of other complex regulations that must be cross-checked with the proposed MOS. Industry is also alarmed at the very short timeline to complete this work when most of the operators are absent from their bases as the mustering operations probably are reaching their peak.

New rules suggest not allowing the carrying of passengers on charter flights, such as tourist scenic flights. These will not be allowed in the new MOS. These essential revenue sources for small commercial operators will be moved up into Air Transport Legislation to meet some airline type protocols needing new manuals, etc. And upgrading of the operator’s Aerial Operator’s Certificate will be required.

A comprehensive update will be provided in the VTOL Asia-Pacific e-news May Report sent out on Monday 1 June 2020. Will include CEO of CASA’s reply to Mary after her request for a time extension. The CEO has suggested industry comply with their request to submit comments by 3 June 2020. After they have been sorted and published; then the industry and regulator would be able to sit down and commence negotiations over matters needed to be resolved in the best interests of the helicopter community.

Readers should note, there are equivalent regulations concerning aeroplane operations, include crop spraying for both rotorcraft and aeroplanes.

More soon on this important topic.

Reminder: Get your thoughts to CASA via the online service. See website. We must get this right as we try to rebuild our industry damaged by the COVICD-19 pandemic.